Front cover top Catherington Down from the west showing 'Strip Lynchetts' bottom Path through Yoell's copse at Bluebell time Back cover top Catherington Lith Woodland Fair centre left Common Frog centre middle Yellow-legged Clearwing Moth centre right Nuthatch on feeder bottom Ancient pond in Yoell's Copse, Winter 2010
Below: Ham Lane, one of Horndean's Ancient Lanes linking Yoell's Copse to Catherington Down
We are grateful to the following organisations for sponsoring the publication of this Plan.
FOREWORD
This Horndean Biodiversity Action Plan describes the rich natural environment of the Parish and is both timely and inspirational. We are all well aware of threats to our environment in both town and countryside. The pressures include development, pollution and climate change; we must fight to protect our existing landscape, the countryside and its trees, hedgerows and wildlife.
As residents of Horndean Parish you are exceptionally well placed to appreciate the value of trees, with Yoell's Copse being a jewel in the crown. The rare Wye Whitebeams have drawn me to the wood on a number of occasions and I marvel at these special trees, hiding in a Hampshire community. Trees help to define our sense of place; they are the distinctive element of our landscape and support a huge range of biodiversity.
In your gardens and open spaces you live amongst trees that are a legacy from the former farmland. These include some majestic old oaks, veritable green monuments in their own right
It is obvious that this Biodiversity Action Plan is the result of a true passion in Horndean for your local environment, and it sets out clearly what is special and how the biodiversity of the Parish can be improved for future generations.
On behalf of the Tree Council, I am delighted to be able to endorse it.
Jon Stokes Director of Programmes The Tree Council34
Click on the icon in the top left of the screen to open the Table of Contents which lets you view the section you want by clicking on the section heading.
Ctrl-Click the small raised numbers in the text for references in Appendix 2
To contact the Horndean Biodiversity Group email: [email protected]
1 SECTION 1 BIODIVERSITY
1.1 What is Biodiversity? Biodiversity is the sum of the variety of all living organisms from plants, animals and fungi, to micro- organisms invisible to the human eye which makes up and sustains our natural environment.
The first legal framework to support the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity signed conservation of biodiversity and to require by 159 countries at the Rio Earth Summit. strategies and action plans to achieve this was 1994 UK Government publishes the UK the 1992 Rio Convention on Biological Biodiversity Action Plan (‘BAP’)4 Diversity. This defined biodiversity as ‘The 1998 Hampshire County Council BAP Volume variability among living organisms from all 2000 One published in September 1998 and sources including, inter alia, terrestrial, marine Volume Two published July 20005 and other aquatic ecosystems and the 1999- Horndean Parish Council commissions the ecological complexes of which they are part; 2002 production of the Horndean Local Nature this includes diversity within species, between Conservation Plan and the Village Design species and of ecosystems.’ Statement 2006 The Natural Environment and Rural 1.2 Why is it Important? Committees Act12 Biodiversity underpins the healthy natural 2007 UK partnership organisations produced ecosystems on which the human race relies for ‘Conserving Biodiversity – The U.K Approach’ setting out a devolved its food, water and medicine as well as natural framework for biodiversity conservation resources such as wood, rubber and products and promoting strategic action at a local derived from animals. level6 Biodiversity is fundamental to life on Earth 2009 East Hampshire Biodiversity Action Plan 7 because it supports the things on which we 2009-2019 approved depend such as fresh water, fertile soil and 2010 The strategic plan of the UN Convention clean air. This is due to the way the different on Biological Diversity is published at their meeting in Nagoya, Japan and includes organisms interact with each other to help five strategic goals and targets to be maintain the balance of the global ecosystem. achieved by 2020 Biodiversity also helps regulate natural 2010 The UN declares 2010 the International processes such as the growth cycles of plants, Year of Biodiversity with the aim of the mating seasons of animals, and even increasing awareness of the irreversible weather systems. damage being done to global biodiversity It has been estimated that about 80% of our 2011 UK Government’s Natural Environment White Paper published in June18 food comes from just 20 kinds of plant, and that although many kinds of animal are used as 2011 UK Government’s Biodiversity 2020 Strategy for England’s Wildlife and food, most comes from only a few species. Ecosystem Services is published in August Similarly, many drugs are derived from just a sets out how the quality of our few plant species and it may well be that other environment on land and at sea will be plants could prove to be potential sources of improved over the next ten years19 new drugs that could enhance our lives. 2012 Defra and the devolved administrations publish the UK post-2010 Biodiversity Many building materials as well as fibres, dyes, Framework in July covering the period resins, gums, adhesives, rubber and oil also from 2011 to 202020 come from plants, and other as yet unknown
2 materials could be discovered from research into covering a wider diversity of organisms. Accordingly, the need to preserve and promote biodiversity is not just so that we can enjoy walks and drives in the countryside looking at the different trees, plants and other wildlife that it supports, it is about ensuring that those trees, plants and other wildlife survive because the future of the human race depends on them.
1.3 How can we preserve it? Horndean has a range of valuable habitats in a relatively small area owing to its unique geology. These include ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and lowland heath, all of which have their own unique character and are threatened because Horndean is an attractive area for business development due to its location on the A3 between Portsmouth and London. As a result, many habitats are becoming fragmented and isolated and are too small to provide a good home for wildlife and risk being lost forever. The increase in the population of the Parish and its need for housing is reducing the green spaces that we share with wildlife for mutual benefit.
Action to preserve biodiversity can take place on a number of different levels from sympathetic management of public space and the countryside by local authorities, to growing wildflowers in our gardens, putting out bird feeders in winter and creating compost piles. Groups have been formed by local residents with an interest in wildlife and a passion for the local area such as the South Downs Group of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (‘HIWWT’) and Horndean Biodiversity Group (‘HBG’). Increasing Environmental Awareness, particularly among young people, is one of the most important things we can do in securing our natural heritage for future generations. An educational programme is in place between schools in Horndean and the Parish Council aimed at increasing awareness of the wildlife value of local sites.
Ultimately, British wildlife depends on the availability of good habitat and this is something that can be encouraged by everyone, from homeowners to national government.
1.4 The Need for a Biodiversity Action Plan for Horndean The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 200612 states that “Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity.”
This Plan identifies the animal and plant species living in the Biodiversity Action Plan (‘BAP’) Parish and the sites that provide their habitats, and sets out These Plans are internationally the actions to protect and enhance them while also providing recognized programs addressing the green space that local people use for recreation. It also threatened species and habitats aims to encourage the local community to help carry out designed to protect and restore these actions, and engage children’s interest in the species biological systems. and wildlife that can be found locally, as well as helping them Their principal elements typically to understand the importance of our natural environment. include recording information for selected species or habitats; The following sections cover Horndean past and present assessing their conservation status; including its geology and geography; the different types of setting targets for conservation land found in the Parish and the species that live on it, and and restoration; and establishing finally the actions we can take to preserve and enhance them timelines and partnerships for its to benefit both our wildlife and ourselves. implementation.
3 SECTION 2 HORNDEAN
2.1 History Horndean once stood on the northern boundary of the Forest of Bere, a great forest that stretched from the border of Hampshire to Winchester. Archaeological records for Horndean list finds from the Mesolithic (10,000BC-4,001BC) and Neolithic (4,000BC–2201BC) periods and sites with evidence of habitation from the Bronze Age (2,200 BC–801BC) onwards. Around 8000 BC a large part of the south side of Horndean was covered by deciduous forest, dominated by oak. The woodland would have formed a barrier between the communities living along the coast and the chalk downland to the north of Horndean. Two natural breaks connect the downs with the coastal plain, the Meon Valley to the west and the Ancient Bridleway and Copse at New Barn Farm valley of the Lavant running through Havant, Rowlands Castle and Finchdean. A direct line through the forest in the area which is now Waterlooville and Cowplain, for those travelling from Portsmouth to London, would have been relatively recent. The present Horndean landscape has been influenced for more than 5000 years by human settlement and farming activities. This has been a key factor affecting our present range of plant and animal species.
2.2 Present Day Horndean is a large community of almost 13,000 people located on the northern edge of the Waterlooville built up area. Most of the urban area is surrounded by open countryside and part of the Parish is in the South Downs National Park (‘SDNP’). The concealed location of Horndean allows views of the landscape to predominate. Excellent views of the coast and Isle of Wight can be enjoyed
Lovedean’s rural landscape from Horndean Down and from behind Catherington Church. Portsmouth Road, Havant Road and Lovedean Lane from the north all provide attractive routes into Horndean.
4 Horndean is a border village with many natural and artificial boundaries. The East Hampshire District Landscape Character Assessment shows Horndean as being mainly ‘Downland Mosaic’ with a band of ‘Wooded Clayland’ in the south while in the north of the Parish chalk downland is more dominant. The Parish has a mixture of large open arable fields on well-drained calcareous soil and smaller fields of mixed arable pasture and woodland both on heavier soils. The area has a rich mixture of habitats for wildlife ranging from chalk grassland in the north to heathland in the southeast leading on to a larger area across the boundary at Havant Merchistoun Road Oak Thicket.
Scattered across the whole Parish are many fragments of Ancient Woodland. South Horndean, including the village area, has many mature trees including oaks from ancient woodlands and specimen trees from old estates. The most valuable natural, yet threatened, feature in Horndean is our wonderful selection of native trees, enhanced by some fine imported species planted in the 18th and 19th century. The oak is probably our greatest asset and there are some survivors from the Forest of Bere that are 300 or more years old, many of which are now within the built up area. Oaks support a vast number of other wildlife species including birds, animals, invertebrates, mosses, lichens, ferns and fungi. For these reasons and because the Government now proposes to allow mature native trees to be removed to make way for housing45 46, oaks are high on our list of priorities for conservation and new planting projects. It is noted that housing development in Havant Road and proposal for houses in Blendworth Lane are designed to protect and preserve the oaks on these sites. Fence Around Oak on Havant Road Development There are a number of ancient lanes in the Parish (Coldhill, Ham and Tagdell Lanes) and to the east; Sheepwash Road is an ancient route through the area onto the South Downs. The development of roads fragment the landscape into a series of smaller blocks. The southern boundary of the South Downs National Park cuts through the northern third of the Parish and the original boundary of the Forest of Bere running near to the present southern boundary of the Parish.
Some local hedgerows still contain English and Wych Elm. Several large Elms that surrounded Jubilee Field appeared in German reconnaissance photographs, taken in 1940. The Parish has a very rich diversity of flora and throughout the summer there are a number of different locations which are especially valuable for wildflowers
5 A study of old documents and maps to back up field surveys gives useful information on the evolution of the countryside. Many of our best localities for biodiversity are the ancient hedgerows and trackways, many of which are still in existence and mostly accessible within the Parish. There have been several detailed hedgerow surveys going back to the 1970s organised by volunteer groups. Most hedgerows are managed by farmers and the Highways Departments and are in some cases supported by government Stewardship schemes but there are still some surviving within housing estates, including rows of mature trees such as oak, field maple, holly and hazel. These are all excellent habitats for wildlife and aid those trying to attract wildlife into their gardens. They also provide a corridor across the built up area. New hedgerows and lines of trees should be integral to plans for housing with a green infrastructure or replacing lost hedgerows in the more rural farmland. Species are becoming isolated due to urban spread and it is important to keep and maintain wildlife corridors to encourage the movement of species.
Although the construction of the A3 and A3(M) have fragmented the landscape, the banks and roundabout from Horndean to Waterlooville at Junction 2 have produced a nature reserve supporting what may be the best orchid site in South East Hampshire, no doubt helped by it being largely inaccessible.
2.3 Geology and Soil The varied geology of the Parish supports a wide variety of habitats in which a wide range of plants and animals can thrive as the different rock types lead to differences in soil chemistry.
The calcareous chalk in the northern half of the Parish gives rise to alkaline soils such as those found at Catherington Down which support species-rich grasslands with Beech, Yew and Ash being dominant in the woodland strips traversing the downland. Clay-with-Flints cover many of the upland areas of chalk including Catherington and the fields extending towards Catherington Lith, as well as Hinton Farm and much of Blendworth on the eastern boundary. Exposures of this clay were seen at the south end of Catherington Lane during the laying of new gas mains during 2011.
The coarser textured and less fertile sandy soil in the south is better drained and warms up more quickly in the spring, giving rise to heathland, such as found at Hazleton Common, as well as grassland and many small wooded areas which are dominated by oak, Field Maple and Hazel.
In between there are a variety of clay soils which are richer in nutrients. The Reading Beds, made up of mottled clay and small pockets of sand overlay the chalk at variable Fossil sea urchin in chalk path in Clanfield depths up to 30 metres, covering a large part of the southern half of Horndean. These deposits contain large quantities of broken and nodular flints derived from the chalk beds below them which mean they are difficult for farmers and gardeners to cultivate which has played a part in saving wildlife habitats such as Yoells Copse and Dell Piece.
6 Geology Section Map
A section from south to north through the centre of Horndean showing the geological features found within the parish passing through Hazelton Common and Dell Piece West.
Geological Section
Superficial Deposits Top soil From 0.01 to 0.6 metres Clay wit flints Variable depth (up to 2.5 metres on gas pipe trenches (2013) Bedrock Deposits Reading beds Clay, silt and sand mixture 10 to 30 metres Upper chalk Up to 250 metres (only seen in pits, quarries and excavations)
More information can be gained by observing road works, building sites and bore hole records. To the south of Horndean in Cowplain there is London Clay. To the north towards Petersfield (A3 and Queen Elizabeth Park) beds of the Middle and Lower Chalk can be seen. Near Buriton the Upper Greensand and Gault Clay are exposed.
7 2.4 Fossils and Flints The commonest fossils found in Horndean are sea urchins, sponges, brachiopods and other marine invertebrates that originally lived in marine waters at between 100 and 500 metre depths. The fossils have all been derived from the weathering of Chalk and represent biodiversity in the Upper Cretaceous seas that covered this area, over 65 million years ago. Many of the fossils are found as flint in gardens, fields and in pits across the Parish. Flints of all sizes and types are very plentiful across the Parish and feature in many buildings and walls, the older flintwork being coloured by several species of lichens.
2.5 Climate and Hydrology The geographical location of Horndean midway along the south coast determines that we are just to the west of the area for those species associated with a drier continental climate and just to the east of the area of species preferring damper Atlantic conditions. The Horndean area generally enjoys a mild and equable climate but in recent years we have experienced more extreme weather conditions such as periods of heavy rain followed by periods of drought. This has had an effect on soil structure particularly on clay soils derived from the Reading Beds and in the Cracks in Pyle Farm pond in June 2010 northern part of the Parish the clay with flints. During long dry spells deep cracks appear, into which rain rapidly drains through to the underlying chalk.
The effects on the local wildlife of changes in the climate are very difficult to estimate but it is certain that plants and animals are far better at adapting to changes than human beings that live in a man-made environment.
2.6 Natural Energy Resources For many years oil exploration has been Solar Farm in Day Lane undertaken on the east side of Horndean and is mainly screened within woodland. Oil continues to be pumped at Pyle Farm and there may be further exploration for oil north east of the Parish. There is a Solar Farm at Lovedean in open farmland which is surrounded by hedgerows and some important and protected grass verges. It is important that both areas are monitored to study any impact or changes that these activities may have on the local wildlife. This also applies to any plans to extend oil exploration in the area in future. Oil pumping near Keydell Nursery
8 Horndean Parish Geological Features
A3 3
Blendworth
Lovedean
9 SECTION 3 HABITATS
3.1 Overview Horndean Parish contains large areas of urban land and countryside, both of which can provide valuable habitats for a wide range of different species if managed in a way that supports wildlife. These include land managed for food such as farmland and allotments, and for leisure such as parkland, gardens and churchyards. Ecological data generated within The Parish also has fragmented areas of species-rich, Horndean is collected by Hampshire priority habitats which typically characterise Biodiversity Information Centre (‘HBIC’)39, traditional Hampshire countryside, such as ancient a department of Hampshire County semi-natural woodland, calcareous grassland and Council. lowland heath, and wetlands, much of which is The data collected by HBG voluntary included on designated wildlife sites. Many of these recording schemes should be passed onto sites are linked by natural networks which are HBIC via appropriate county recorders important sustaining and promoting the species that who collate and verify the information live on them. before passing it on to be entered into a In 2012, Horndean Parish Council’s nature reserves central database at Hampshire County were entered into a Higher Level Stewardship (‘HLS’) Council. agreement which will continue until 2022 and Centralising ecological records in this way currently governs their management. According to allows an insight into ‘the bigger picture’ Natural England’s website, much of this area is not and is a valuable tool in the designation of covered by stewardship schemes. Details of extant areas such as Sites of Importance to Nature Conservation (SINCs), which rely stewardship agreements within the Parish can be on a relatively high level of species viewed using the ‘Nature on the Map’ tool on the diversity. Software such as ‘Mapmate’ can Natural England website. be used to collate data and send it on to HBIC. 3.2 Working together with residents Records taken by professional ecologists Natural open space is acknowledged as having a role also exist, as part of site surveys carried in improving human health and Horndean Parish out on designated areas at set intervals. In Council’s designated sites which include countryside, some unusual cases, national archiving nature reserves and parks are used extensively by its organisations such as the National residents for leisure. Accordingly to manage the sites Museum of Wales have come to Horndean effectively we need to ensure that the public who use to help verify recordings of extremely rare and enjoy them appreciate the importance of specimens, namely the Wye Whitebeam in conserving the wildlife and the habitats and plant life Yoells Copse. on which they depend and know how they can play their part in helping to achieve this. This also means ensuring that the management plans to promote and preserve the biodiversity and wildlife habitats of these sites (which are usually publicised on the Parish Council web site and on the sites themselves) take account of the needs of the public.
3.3 Site management Management of grassland sites may include
10 marking routes across the site to reduce soil compression which damages the ground flora and soil fungi and micro-organisms essential for the recycling of soil nutrients., grazing sites by cattle to break down rank vegetation and create room for renewed plant growth resulting in parts of the site being temporarily closed to the public, protection of ground nesting birds such as Nightjar, Snipe, Skylark and Woodcock by making access conditional on keeping dogs on leads25, brush cutting or removal of selected saplings.
Educational events may also be held covering matters such as the range of species present in that area, or to explain the presence of cattle to help to reduce people’s concerns about these animals which some can find intimidating. Finally, users of sites need to appreciate that during the summer, extensive, dense areas of dry, flammable vegetation like gorse mean that fires can start and spread very quickly and be difficult to put out. Accordingly we need to be careful to avoid doing anything that could cause them.
There are many opportunities for volunteers to assist in maintenance of the Parish Council sites for which some training can be arranged, including: Assisting with the maintenance of Parish council sites; Working on biodiversity projects in the Parish; Undertaking surveying of flora and fauna within the Parish; Managing surveying programmes and liaison with HBIC, HIWWT and the county recorders.
Recording the existing species and highlighting the breadth of biodiversity in the Parish may help draw attention to the importance of preserving them. Surveying also indicates if species are increasing or reducing and also raises awareness of undesirable species and infections to flora or
Volunteers Helping Plant Trees at Jubilee Field (Nov 2012)
11 fauna. This knowledge can be used to improve the management of sites and to assess what if any wider actions are necessary. Currently there are programmes to survey butterflies and moths, survey wild flowers, establish a register of ancient and notable trees, survey hedgerows, hedgerow flora and verges. The range of surveys can be extended as more volunteers become available.
Actions to protect Fungi include the following: Encourage people to use the main footpaths in the LNRs (by signage) can help protect fungi and life in the leaf litter. Protect trees on construction sites by fencing and preventing heavy equipment and materials using the ground over the shallow feeding root run of most trees. The protective fences should be placed beyond the canopy of the tree and the drip line in accordance with B.S. 5837 Avoid the use of fungicides and pesticides in fields and gardens especially near hedgerows or grass verges Retain deadwood and keep some standing dead timber in woodland. Keep regular records of species seen on surveys and fungal forays.
Parish Tree Wardens. The Tree Warden Scheme was launched in East Hampshire in 1989. Horndean has had three Tree Wardens appointed as volunteers to gather information, to give advice and to encourage practical projects relating to trees in the community. In Horndean the main task has been helping to protect threatened trees and generally raise the profile of trees in the local community. There has been an increase in tree pests and diseases and so a constant need for inspection and on all tree matters they liaise closely with local rangers and council tree officers.
Recording Moths in Horndean. The best place to see and record moths is in our own gardens using the moth traps described below, but do check that the bright light is not going to disturb neighbours. Traps can be loaned from HBG members or better still you can make your own. Most moth species have a flight season and time and so light trapping is best at intervals throughout the year and from dusk to dawn. The Annual ‘National Moth Night’ is held at different months each year and records are sent in annually from Horndean. Many moth species are day-flying and can be seen whilst studying butterflies and many nocturnal species come to house lights through open windows or porches. The majority of caterpillars found in Gardens or along hedgerows are moths.
Moth trapping in Horndean. Occasionally, moth trapping session have been held on our nature reserves, these are announced in newsletters, the public are invited but the weather is a problem to giving advanced notice of events. There are problems with organising moth trapping in public areas but setting a moth trap in your garden at dusk and checking and identifying the contents in the morning is a most enjoyable task. Most urban gardens in Horndean will attract at least a 100 species and those near Catherington Lane will attract in excess of 300 species during one year. The traps used are Robinson and Skinner types, each using mercury vapour lamps running off mains voltage or a portable generator if there is no mains power as in the middle of Hazleton Common. Sometimes a large number of insects from other groups such as flies, beetles and even a hornet will enter the trap. There may be many moth species attracted or a very large number of just one or two species, and then very small micro moths can appear in great numbers. Amongst the more spectacular larger
12 moths the Elephant Hawk-moth and the larger Yellow Underwings are very frequent. All the moths caught are released to the wild after recording. It is important not to record in the same area without a time interval as many moths will re-enter the trap.
Finally, we should do all we can to encourage children to participate in conservation activities so that they learn about the importance of preserving biodiversity and how it will affect their future.
3.4 Urban Habitat 3.4.1 Allotments Allotments are an important community facility and provide valuable habitats for many native plants and animals especially in the urban parts of Horndean where garden space is becoming very limited. There are currently only 10 small allotments in Napier Road of about 100 square metres. There is a waiting list and the Parish Plan has indicated a demand for more, proposing up to three new sites spread across the Parish but as near as possible to areas of high density housing. There are a number of small allotments at Horndean Technology College for use by children.
WHAT CAN WE DO? Create a rotation of crops within the plots in which flowering plants such as peas, beans and herbs are included and encourage habitat creation and give special attention to the margins and plot boundaries with trees and hedgerows. Introduce blossom and fruit trees.
3.4.2 Parkland and Playing Fields The Parish of Horndean contains several areas of land for recreational use, much of which is managed by local authorities. Although in most cases these areas are managed for public recreation rather than for nature conservation, they serve as stepping stones for wildlife.
13 Some of these areas are left uncropped, which does have some benefit for wildlife conservation. These include Five Heads Road, Jubilee Field, Deep Dell and Downs Park recreation grounds, as well as the grounds of Merchistoun Hall which has previously been managed for public recreation and conservation. Management has included hedgerow planting with native species, wildflower sowing and pond upkeep.
Amenity grassland is usually extremely uniform and species-poor. This means that it is of quite low value to biodiversity. However, in some areas it is often used as winter feeding grounds for birds, particularly waterfowl and geese, as areas of bare ground can provide an accessible source of invertebrates.
3.4.3 Gardens Private gardens can be extremely rich in wildlife even in the urban parts of the Parish. Collectively they form wildlife corridors. Many are bordered by the remains of old hedgerows often now reduced to a row of maturing native trees including oaks, field maple and ash. This leads to problems with many trees being close to properties and eventually needing severe reduction or lopping. Many examples can be seen in Horndean, eg. gardens backing on to Yoells Copse, Bull’s Copse, Stonechat Road and new estates in North Horndean. Merchistoun Road has a better layout in which several oaks were retained in gardens and in the green areas within the estate. These provide a rich habitat for wildlife and the adjoining gardens, if managed appropriately, can attract wildlife and provide homes for many species.
In recent years houses with large gardens have been purchased by developers for ‘infill’ housing. Some plots in Catherington Lane have provided space for six or more new houses and any trees retained are surrounded by access drives and car parking. This is damaging for wildlife, biodiversity and a healthy environment. Front gardens have also become smaller or disappeared altogether as they have been replaced with hard standing or gravel for patios and off-road parking. This has an adverse impact on the environment and has a serious effect on the richness of biodiversity. However the smallest spaces, from window boxes to patio pots can be managed with a careful choice of plants to provide nectar and mini flower meadows.
Further loss of green space in Horndean could be limited if local communities and the planning authorities are more aware of the importance of the natural environment and the wildlife it supports which this Biodiversity Action Plan may help address.
2,673 species of native plants and animals were recorded in one UK garden over a 30 year period illustrating how important gardens can be for wildlife and biodiversity.
WHAT CAN WE DO? Adding a row of flowering plants in a vegetable garden will attract hoverflies which consume large numbers of greenflies.
Bees are one of the principal pollinators of flowering plants and play a vital economic role in food production. Without bees, raspberries, apples, beans and other produce would be in short supply and many wild flowers could become rare. Many species are now declining mainly because of intensification in farming and loss of habitat. Gardens are an essential habitat for bumble bees. Making a bee garden by growing suitable plants and providing places for them to nest can help to reverse this decline and maintain the present population. The presence of bumblebees, and the
14 sound of them working, bring a garden to life, providing a source of interest and enjoyment, especially for children.
WHAT CAN WE DO? Planting flowers that flower for as long as possible throughout the year will help the greatest number of bee species. A list of suitable plants including native shrubs that can be used to fill up gaps in hedgerows is given in APPENDIX 8.
An undisturbed compost heap, log pile and banks of old turf can provide nesting and hibernating sites. Bundles of reed, bamboo or other hollow stems and even old bird nest boxes can provide nesting holes.
See ‘Further Reading’ at the end of this document for more information on this subject. 3.4.4 Churchyards Churchyards are like small islands of a past time where there is an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity. Not just a resting place for our ancestors but a valuable sanctuary for a wide range of wildlife. With a little care, churchyards, cemeteries and gardens of remembrance can be managed in a way that is attractive to local people, visitors and wildlife and at the same time enhance a lasting memorial to past generations.
A good guide to churchyard management is the ‘Caring for God’s Acre Action Pack’22 which contains ideas and projects suitable for all ages and abilities. One of the best projects to benefit biodiversity is to keep an area of grassland aside as a wild flower meadow, and provide information on what is happening so that visitors do not regard it as an area of neglect. Surveys would be required prior to producing a management plan.
The Parish has three mature churchyards:
1. Catherington Church is the oldest and has a potential for enhancing the larger area as a species rich habitat for wildlife. The cemetery extension is now managed by EHDC and a conservation project in this area would be not only of great benefit to wildlife but of educational value for the schools nearby and add to an area already rich in biodiversity.
2. Blendworth Church was built in 1852 on a new site and so the present churchyard dates from that time and has recently had a small extension. Both these churchyards are surrounded by open fields and beyond areas of ancient woodland called Catherington and Blendworth Liths with hedgerows in between acting as links. Some of these
Catherington Churchyard
15 would benefit from management especially additional planting.
3. Old Blendworth churchyard is the original site of Blendworth Parish Church and dates back to at least the 14th century as a small church site. The remains of the last building on the site (St. Giles) can be found in the centre of the area and is now managed by Horndean Parish Council as a quiet resting place encouraging wildlife.
'High Forest' rare native trees Lichens in Churchyards.32 Several species of lichens can be found in churchyards. A survey of lichens in these churchyards carried out by Dr Francis Rose found that Catherington churchyard had 63 species in July 1992 and Blendworth had 41 species in February 1994. St.Giles in Old Blendworth only had 14 species in 1994 but at that time a number of the gravestones had been laid flat and had gathered mosses at the expense of lichens after which attempts were made to clean up the stones. Since then management has improved with sympathetic care by the Parish countryside team.
3.5 Countryside 3.5.1 Farmland Over 50% of the land within the Parish boundary is used for agricultural purposes. This includes substantial areas of arable farmland, as well as grazing cows, sheep and horses, and it represents a very important aspect of the area’s habitat. Arable farmland is a valuable habitat for a variety of bird species that are of BAP priority, such as Skylark, Yellowhammer and Lapwing.
The biodiversity value of arable farmland is heavily dependent on the presence of permanent grassland and other un-cropped habitats, such as hedgerows, stands of trees and drainage ditches. Extensive areas of uniform crop species such as those in the north of the Parish are generally undesirable from a nature conservation perspective. Traditional farmland is considered to be of high conservation importance as it contains a higher proportion of the bird species which are in decline in non-farmland habitats.
3.5.2 Woodland Woodlands are a unique habitat as they are dominated by trees, which are longer-lived than the structural components of most other habitat types.
Important features of woodland habitats are tree-species composition, continuity of the site, age and structure of stands, quantity and types of dead wood, the forest edge, and variation in soils, topography and drainage.
Horndean contains many fragments of ancient semi-natural woodland which would have once covered the majority of South East Hampshire. Most of these woodlands contain Ancient Woodland Vascular Plants (‘AWVPs’) which are typical of this habitat, particularly bluebells, moschatel, wood anemones, butcher's broom and dog's mercury. Ancient woodland refers to areas that have been continually wooded since 1600AD.
16 Many fragments of ancient semi-natural woodland within Horndean Parish are not owned by the Parish Council, including the largest area of this habitat type within the Parish, Blendworth Lith. They are not necessarily managed for nature conservation. Most of these sites have been given Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (‘SINC’) status by Hampshire County Council, provided they are at least two hectares in size. There are a few small woodland sites less than two hectares that remain unprotected.
3.5.3 Grassland and Heath There are two broad types of grassland within Horndean: acidic and calcareous. These are determined by their underlying geology. Examples of acid grassland include Dell Piece West and Hazleton Common. Catherington Down and Netherley Down are good examples of calcareous grassland, which is characterised by a thin layer of nutrient- Improved Grassland at Horndean Down poor soil on a chalk substratum.
Large areas of grassland in Horndean are grazed. This benefits conservation when it results in a varied sward structure (‘sward structure’ refers to density and height of vegetation). It can however be detrimental to biodiversity if it results in uniform and closely cropped swards of grass, as occurs with sheep. Conversely, horses, which do much of the grazing in Horndean are highly selective grazers that have the potential to create more varied grassland, with both long and close cropped areas.
3.5.4 Aquatic and Wetlands The varied geology of the Parish affects its ponds and streams as these are fed from groundwater as well as rainwater.
There are a significant number of ponds in the Parish of Horndean, differing in size and quality and ranging from large ponds, some natural, to small garden ponds. Some of these are in private gardens while others are on nature reserves owned by the Parish Council. Freshwater ponds and wetland habitats are extremely important refuges for a Ponds and Wetland at Hazleton Common massive array of wildlife, some of which are becoming increasingly rare and endangered.
Within the UK, ponds are home to two thirds of all freshwater plants and animals, including over 3,000 invertebrate species. They are important for waterfowl, amphibians, and reptiles and as
17 watering holes for mammals. Pond habitats are essential not only for waterborne species but for terrestrial wildlife too. Many invertebrate species such as dragonflies and mayflies begin their life within a body of water. Some of the important species related to ponds include Great Crested Newts and Grass Snakes. More than three quarters of our freshwater ponds were lost because of the changes in land use over the 20th Century. This, coupled with their diversity of species, has resulted in them being recognised as important for wildlife under the Habitat Action Plan.
An important feature of a pond is its age. An old, well-established pond will have a high diversity of plant and animal species, much the same as ancient woodland. However, a newly formed pond will contain species that are only present in the early stages of the ponds development. A mixture of old and new is needed to maintain the largest diversity of wildlife.
The largest pond in Horndean can be found at Keydell Nursery. This pond is managed as a duck pond and contains no surface vegetation, other than water lilies and is surrounded by trees and shrubs.
Hazleton Common has three ponds and an area of waterlogged ground. One of the ponds is very well established whereas the others are more recent. The oldest and largest pond has Great Crested Newts present and they all attract multiple species of dragonfly every year.
The area of water at Dell Piece West is very shallow and often dries out during the summer. It contains reedmace and many species of sedge. It is also a good site for bird species, such as mallards, coots and herons and several species of dragonfly. A garden pond can also provide a haven for dragonflies by attracting many species into an urban garden enabling their spectacular aerobatics, brilliant colours and intriguing life-cycle to be witnessed at close quarters. For more details see the British Dragonfly Society’s booklet ‘Dig a Pond for Dragonflies’23.
Catherington Pond is another attractive body of water which has been a feature of Catherington Village since before 1920. It contains Flag Iris and Bog Bean. The water levels differ greatly depending on the amount of rain as it is fed by run-off from the road.
A major threat to ponds in Horndean is invasion from alien species such as goldfish or terrapins. These predate invertebrate life and can devastate the pond diversity. Other invasive species of particular concern are New Zealand pygmy weed and parrots feather, both are a particular problem in the pond at Merchistoun Hall. These plant species can completely cover the surface of the pond, preventing light from penetrating the water and their decaying of plant material reduces oxygen levels for fauna.
In Horndean there are two main lavants with a number of branches. These can be seen on the 'Geological Features ' map by following the 'green' areas representing river and stream sediments. Lavants are usually sourced from 'intermittent' springs such as those seen near the A3 at Dell Piece West and also at Lovedean Lane. Generally referred to as 'bournes', in Wiltshire and Dorset they are often known as 'winterbournes' and in Hampshire and West Sussex as 'lavants'. Local examples potentially provide good areas for wildlife habitats but are not suitable for housing sites.
3.6 Natural Networks The local natural environment contains a number of disconnected places: gardens, parks, playing fields, farmland, woodland, grassland and wetlands. It should be considered not just as isolated spots of green but a potentially thriving network linking wildlife sites across these environments. Important habitat can also be found on undisturbed road verges.
18 3.6.1 Core areas and stepping stone sites The core areas support a significant range of species of flora and fauna. In Horndean they are the wider countryside, mainly in the South Downs National Park and the designated areas in the Parish. Stepping stone sites are much smaller and within either the farmed or the urban areas. They include; copses, parks, gardens and open spaces in the urban. Together with the wild life corridors they enable species to move between the core sites and into the heart of the urban area. 17
3.6.2 Wild life Corridors ‘Wild life corridors’ are uncropped links. The most effective wild life corridor in Horndean is the wide strip of land enclosing the A3/A3(M). This is a wild area that few people, dogs or cats visit enabling wild life to move between the South Downs and the extended Waterlooville urban area with minimal predation. At a more detailed level Portsmouth Road with its tree lined avenue, the Merchistoun Road area, road verges, water filled ditches and hedges, some along rights of way, function in a similar way. For example, a length of hedgerow which runs between two separate stands of woodland can enable small mammals, insects, bats and birds to travel between them, by providing shelter and a means of navigation.
3.6.3 Hedgerows and Verges Horndean contains a significant amount of un- cropped hedgerow, typically on farmland, along footpaths3 and bridleways, on borders of woodland areas and on boundaries of public spaces. Many of these are ancient track ways which have remained undisturbed for centuries. Many of Horndean’s hedgerows are well established and date back several hundred years and are pre-enclosure. The adjacent verges still contain pockets of bluebells and a few clumps of primroses and barren strawberry as well as woodland plants such as dog’s mercury, wood anemones, stitchwort and wild garlic in early spring and by may many hedgerows, such as the very long verge in Woodhouse Lane in Ancient Hedgerow with Ash and Oak Blendworth becomes a ribbon of cow parsley. The cow parsley and hogweed are a great attraction to hover flies, small beetles and other invertebrates. As they go to seed the grasses and a number of arable species take over and grass cutting gets under way. A number of rarer flowers appear on occasions such as bee orchids in a verge along Hazleton Way, and winter heliotrope by the car entrance to Merchistoun Hall.
Hedgerows are a particularly important aspect of agricultural land, from a conservation perspective. They are essential for maintaining a network for wildlife between larger sites, such as areas of woodland, from which small mammals, birds and plants can benefit. Wildlife, including species of song and gamebirds, can feed from areas of crops more readily, with hedgerows providing cover for nesting nearby. This cover can also be provided by scattered trees or bushes and rough field
19 margins. Adjacent areas of woodland are useful in this respect for bird species, such as the Yellowhammer. The ground flora at the base of hedgerows is a very important part of the hedgerow and contributes significantly to the species diversity.
Roadside verges are defined as the strips of land between the road or footpath surface and the land boundary line which may be a hedgerow, fence or wall. They are an important wildlife habitat and if managed sympathetically support a wide range of biodiversity. It is estimated that Hampshire provides approximately 13 thousand hectares of roadside verge, equivalent to 3% of the county’s land area.
Some of the best green verges in Horndean are wide ones that run alongside ancient estate boundaries many of which are backed by a hedgerow and a bank and ditch. When the A3(M) was being constructed, much soil was removed for cuttings, slip roads and roundabouts. These disturbed areas are now flower-rich verges - seen as ‘linear’ meadows which are particularly good sites for orchid species such as Pyramidal, Bee and Common Spotted Orchids. These verges also have the advantage of very limited public access or Marker for protection of wild flower verge disturbance.
Along the minor roads, plant communities can indicate the under-lying geology. Most verges in Horndean lie on the more alkaline chalk soils, where the verge is a south sloping bank. These verges are all at risk from a variety of factors including excessive mowing, erosion ( especially from car parking and horse riding), road widening, cable laying, winter salt spreading, fly tipping, herbicide use and in several cases a spread of invasive species such as bracken or brambles. One of the greatest threats to the health of roadside native flowers may well be the slow increase in soil fertility caused by nitrogen from car exhausts and the ‘run-off’ from arable fields. Other problems can result from planting of a limited range of grasses and managing verges to satisfy a perceived public preference for neatness.
Roadside verges and hedgerows are particularly important habitats for plants, birds, small mammals and insects because of the loss of grassland in the last 60 years, and they help to support valuable wildlife corridors.
The County Council is responsible for the management of the verges on all roads (except the A3(M) and A3) in the county. Hampshire has a good record with no fewer than 224 protected verges that have been identified as being of ecological importance and supporting an important flora. More verges need to be identified in Horndean as we only have two or three listed.
A Road Verge Project was launched in May 2012 to identify more important verges so that the sites can be enhanced and maintained through appropriate management and protection such as organising the cutting regimes, scrub clearance, preventing damage from road maintenance or cable laying and by the monitoring of protected verges. Special verges will be marked with pegs
20 The road verges in the Parish make a big contribution to the attractive rural and urban character of Horndean. A good show of flowers such as buttercups, daisies and dandelions bordering our hedgerows creates a strong positive impression to visitors and local people alike.
See ‘Further Reading’ at the end of this document for more information on this subject.
3.7 Neighbouring Habitats It is essential to consider habitats that neighbour our Parish, as wildlife is by no means static. Some bat species have been known to travel up to six miles from their roost to their feeding site and birds are not constrained by Parish boundaries. Badgers are another frequent boundary Recently Laid Hedgerow at Parsonage Field crosser as territories can be 30 hectares or more. There are nearby surrounding areas that contain similar habitat types to those in Horndean. This helps to maintain the stability of Horndean’s natural environment.
An extensive area of chalk downland lies to the north of Horndean with Butser Hill being part of Queen Elizabeth Country Park and nearer to Horndean is a smaller but species rich area of Oxenbourne Down consisting of chalk grassland and the rare habitat chalk heath. It is an excellent area for butterflies with good populations of Duke of Burgundy, Chalkhill Blue and the scarce Silver- spotted Skipper can be found.
Elsewhere in the surrounding areas are extensive regions of woodland. Wick Hanger is a wooded area on steep chalk escarpments. Other woodlands in the region include Queens Enclosure and Havant Thicket which are expanses of mixed semi-natural ancient woodland managed by the Forestry Commission. The Holt is another area of re planted woodland to the south east of the Parish. Much of these woodlands are the remains of the Forest of Bere.
Another important habitat that can be found neighbouring Horndean Parish is lowland heath. Blendworth Common situated between Hazleton Common and the Holt woodland is a 56 hectare area designated as acid grassland. This was once part of the Forest of Bere. It is now managed by grazing and signs of re-emerging heathland cover can be seen.
Immediately to the South of Horndean there is the large urban area of Waterlooville. Some of the green areas previously mentioned act as natural networks into the urban area.
3.8 Sites Designated for Nature Conservation Horndean Parish Council owns and manages five sites designated and afforded protection for nature conservation covering in total an area of approximately 50 hectares. These sites are • Yoell’s Copse, Catherington Lith and Hazelton Common which are designated as Local Nature Reserves (‘LNR’) meaning that they are important for wildlife, education or public enjoyment,
21 • Catherington Down which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (‘SSSI’) meaning that it has legal protection as one of the county's best wildlife and/or geological sites, and • Dell Piece West which is a Site of Importance to Nature Conservation (‘SINC’)15 meaning that it is considered to be of particular importance for nature conservation. The Parish also has several other SINCs which are in private ownership.
A more detailed explanation of these designations is shown in APPENDIX 5. 3.8.1 Yoells Copse Yoells Copse is five hectares of semi- natural ancient woodland that has survived the development of residential housing in the surrounding area. Because of its long Beech and Bluebells in Yoells Copse history as an isolated fragment of woodland, Yoells Copse is free from invasive species and contains a number of Wild Service Trees and unusual native tree species including an extremely rare hybrid species tree called the Wye Whitebeam, which is one of only a few known specimens within the United Kingdom.
Habitat management within Yoells Copse is similar to ancient semi-natural woodland areas of Catherington Lith. Work carried out in the winter of 2011 involved thinning of the woodland canopy and controlling the extensive areas of understory species, such as Holly. Cuttings were sold as logs, chipped, left as dead wood piles, or burnt on site.
The site also contains a Ancient Pond in Yoells Copse pond, valuable to frogs and other aquatic species. The tree canopy around the pond is currently too dense. It is planned to be thinned and low vegetation, typical to pond edges, will be encouraged instead.
Yoell's Copse once had areas of orchard on the south side and although these have now been lost to housing they could account for the many species of wasps and bees that have been recorded in the Copse. It is unlikely that it contains species that rely on travelling, such as Dormice. Hedgerow links with other sites should be considered a priority for future management and plans for such a project are already underway with Horndean Biodiversity Group.
More information on Yoell's Copse can be found on the Yoell’s Copse website.
22 3.8.2 Catherington Lith Catherington Lith is 12 hectares of ancient semi-natural woodland, secondary woodland and pockets of chalk grassland. This nature reserve has been owned and managed by Horndean Parish Council since 2004. Catherington Lith is another fragment of lowland deciduous woodland, which is of BAP priority. This gets used heavily for recreational purposes by the public and shares some of its boundary with fields used mainly for grazing horses. The woodland itself includes a variety of species, indicative of semi-natural ancient woodland, such as those mentioned above for Yoells Copse.
There are many AWVP species present in Catherington Lith. These include species of ground flora such as Bluebells and Wood Anemones which indicate that the woodland has been in place since at least 1600AD.
As much of the site is ancient semi-natural woodland, these areas are subject to low-intensity management. Work has been planned to thin and fell some older trees in order to allow light to the woodland floor. This would encourage greater diversity of ground flora and help to increase the overall biodiversity of the site.
Another key factor affecting this site’s value to wildlife conservation is its connectivity, via linear strips of un-cropped habitat (i.e. hedgerows), to other larger areas of woodland. This allows species such as Dormice to travel between woodlands and populate new areas. Because of this, areas of hedgerows in Horndean, which are not necessarily owned by the Parish Council, should be monitored closely. Another management technique within Catherington Lith is to create a hedge running around the perimeter of the site, which will also be extremely beneficial for wildlife.
Catherington Lith also contains small pockets of Calcareous grassland. These areas used to be much larger but woodland has been allowed to regenerate and encroach, since they were cleared during the Second World War. These areas currently total less than 1 hectare and this will be a priority for future management.
This site is about to undergo a survey programme for Dormice, which are suspected to be on the site. To improve structure of the woodland and its value to conservation of Dormice and other species, it is advisable to carry out some coppicing and planting of the Hazel understory.
3.8.3 Hazleton Common Hazleton Common, which is approximately 15.96 hectares in size, contains extensive areas of open scrub and grassland, as well as two pockets of ancient woodland. It was acquired in 1996 by Horndean Parish Council which manages it to encourage a transition to lowland heath habitat from acid grassland. This is proving to be successful with the emergence of species such as Woodland pasture at Catherington Lith
23 Common Heather and Gorse on the site. There are also records of Nightjars using the site, which is promising for the future, as these are a species which are indicative of good lowland heath habitat.
There are three ponds to the mid-south of the site which have historical records of the highly protected Great-crested Newt. Generally speaking, lowland heath should contain good populations of reptiles and amphibians and Hazleton Common is no exception, with Adders, Slowworms and Common Lizards.
Hazleton Common is an interesting example of a habitat which is in a transitional phase. It has historically been acid grassland, with fragments of lowland deciduous woodland. However, plant species are starting to establish on this site that are symptomatic of lowland heath habitat, such as Common Heather. Lowland heath is currently a BAP priority habitat, as is lowland dry acid grassland. To distinguish between the two, generally; less than 25% dwarf shrub cover should be assessed as grassland, over 25% as heathland.
A significant amount of scrub clearance is likely to be carried out on this site in coming years if the site is to meet its management objectives and not convert to secondary woodland.
3.8.4 Catherington Down and Parsonage Field Catherington Down is one of the most significant sites in Horndean for wildlife and this is reflected in the fact that it is afforded statutory protection both as a SSSI and a LNR. This status is due to the ecological and historical value of the site. Ancient farming systems, known as ‘Strip Lynchets’ are clearly visible on the Down.
Catherington Down is classified as ‘unimproved calcareous grassland’. This means its soils have remained undisturbed and un-fertilised for many hundreds of years, possibly since medieval times. This has resulted in a variety of rare and unusual plant species that are specially adapted to Catherington Down its conditions, such as Round-headed Rampion, Eyebright and Clustered Bellflower being found on the Down. It is because of its special features that the site is designated as a SSSI.
There have also been good numbers of Orchids on this site, with historical records of Common Spotted Orchids, Pyramidal Orchids, Frog Orchids and Autumn Lady’s Tresses.
Chalk downland is often very good habitat for certain species of butterfly and Catherington Down is no exception, with records of Grizzled Skippers, Large Skippers and Small Skippers.
There are linear strips of woodland running along the edges of Catherington Down and these have records of Silver-Washed Fritillary butterfly, as well as many ‘ancient woodland indicator’ vascular
24 plant species, such as Toothwort and the rare Moschatel.
Management of Catherington Down includes scrub clearance during the winter and grazing from March to late summer. The objective of these techniques is to prevent the encroachment of scrub and rank grass onto more valuable calcareous grassland, for which this site is designated a SSSI.
Scrub Clearing on Catherington Down Parsonage Field is a small wildflower meadow which borders the North-Eastern edge of Catherington Down. It has previously been sown with wildflower seeds and features a number of hedgerows which have been managed using traditional ‘hedge laying’ techniques. The site is cut once a year and the cuttings are removed, as an artificial substitute in the absence of grazing.
3.8.5 Dell Piece West Dell Piece West which is 4.15 hectares of acid grassland with pockets of deciduous woodland may be designated as a LNR. Horndean Parish Council acquired management and ownership of the site in 2005. The site is heavily used by people walking to the adjacent supermarket and for dog Eyebright on Catherington Down walking. Dell Piece West contains a large pond, which is fenced off from the rest of the site. The fence has recently had chicken wire added to the bottom half in an attempt to keep dogs out of the pond and the surrounding area. Throughout the winter, Snipe and Heron have been observed feeding around the edges on more than one occasion.
In 2011-2012 grazing and cutting regimes began on Dell Piece West. Before this however, little or no vegetation management had been in place for this grassland. Because of this, there are extensive areas of tall grass with quite a thick litter layer. This forms ideal habitat for small mammals such as voles and subsequently, birds of prey, like Kestrels are commonplace here. However, this dense litter layer and previous lack of cutting or grazing is not ideal for producing a diversity of plant species.
This site was originally completely wooded before the construction of the A3M motorway. Although
25 there were once plans to develop the site these were withdrawn because of its value to wildlife and the site was designated as a SINC.
Throughout the summer of 2011 a seasonal youth project installed livestock fencing around Dell Piece West to enable grazing in 2012. This enabled this site to meet its conservation objectives, as little vegetation management has been carried out here in recent years.
Dell Piece West should be viewed as an opportunity to create a scenic, grazed nature reserve in an urban environment that is conspicuous to the general public.
3.8.6 Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation in Private ownership
Blendworth Lith At 12 hectares, Blendworth Lith (SU 708136) is the largest area of semi-natural ancient woodland in the Parish of Horndean. The site is mainly ancient woodland on upper chalk, although a small area in the South-east of the site has been reclaimed by the woodland at a later date.
30 ancient woodland indicator species have been recorded in Blendworth Lith, including Toothwort, Moschatel and Solomon’s Seal. The composition of the woodland includes a variety of canopy trees including oak, whitebeam, Sweet Chestnut, beech, ash and some conifers. There are a number of old stools in this woodland that suggest it was once managed by coppicing
Dell Piece West Pond in flood Blendworth Lith is within the boundaries of SDNP and is generally subject to low-intensity management. It is bordered on all sides by agricultural fields.
James Copse and James Copse North James Copse (SU 685123) is a 100 year old oak plantation covering 6 hectares of hazel, ash and maple and a few mature beech. Together the sites support 109 plant species including 43 AWVP indicators, wild service, whitebeam, crab apple, holly and yew.
James Copse Paddock This is typical forest edge landscape (SU 683127/8) covering 1.9 hectares and consisting of two separate areas, a small paddock surrounded by hedgerows and a remnant of ancient woodland that was once part of James Copse. 26 ancient woodland indicators and four acid neutral grassland indicators were noted in the 1991 HBIC survey.
Crabden Copse and Crabden Row Lying alongside Lovedean national grid transformer station on Broadway Lane, Crabden Copse (SU 675134) covers 1 hectare and Crabden Row (SU 678136) also covers 1 hectare.
26 Rabbit Copse Close to Hinton Daubney, west of Lovedean Lane, (SU 684138), Rabbit Copse covers two hectares.
Prew Hanger Parts of Prew Hanger (SU 678148) and covering four hectares can be seen from footpath No. 7 and Broadway Lane.
Shuts Grove Shuts Grove (SU 685149), covering three hectares is located alongside the road to the south west of Hinton Manor. It is shown on the 1870 6”/mile O/S map as an isolated copse with pits showing signs of chalk digging dug out to lime fields. It consists of ancient semi-natural woodland. 27 AWIS species have been recorded. Since the change of ownership in 1998 the site has been managed for the conservation of wildlife.
Coombs Copse Coombs Copse is located south of Hinton Manor (SU 688147) and covers three hectares.
Ludmore Hanger/Whitedells Copse Located east of Lone Barn Farm (SU 682156) and covering 1 hectare, the ends are visible from the road and footpath 41. These sites are essentially good value hedgerows that contain mature ash and an ancient yew.
Redcroft Row Redcroft Row (SU 708125) 2ha Located in Keydell Nursery between Havant Road and Bridleway 24b (Sheepwash Road). Most trees are located to the site boundaries and formed of middle-aged and mature Ash, Field Maple, oak and Sycamore with Hawthorn and Hazel Coppice. With the exception of the Ash, most trees seem to be in reasonable condition. Much of the ground flora has been lost to car park and yards. The SINC has recently been slightly redefined as there is a proposal to build on part of the nursery. There is public access to much of the site in nursery opening hours. TPO’s EH157 and 188 refer.
Wick Hanger Wick Hanger (SU 723132), 32 hectares in size of which 0.34 hectares is in Horndean, is bisected by the Horndean, Rowlands Castle boundary. The strip within Horndean has several ancient woodland indicators including Spurge Laurel, Butcher’s Broom, orchids and bluebells.
Pyle Farm Meadow South This site (SU 713120) covering 5.38 hectares extends to the boundary with Rowlands Castle and the Holt. HBIC indicate that it’s agriculturally unimproved grassland. It can be viewed from the B2149.
Hambledon Lane Verge Located on the boundary between Horndean and Clanfield (SU 680166) it contained 38 species, including seven chalk grassland indictors, in 2010.
27 Horndean Parish Environmental Designations November 2013
28 Horndean Parish Aerial Photograph Summer 2013
29 SECTION 4 SPECIES
4.1 Introduction Horndean is home to a large number of different plants and animals and if we are to ensure that they can survive and thrive in the future we need comprehensive records of all these species together with an understanding of their requirements and habitats and how they can be provided and preserved.2 To produce and maintain this Living Record information requires a lot of work and manpower, and local people who have or are keen to develop an The success of this Action Plan depends to interest in observing and recording wildlife can be of some extent on local people sharing and enormous assistance in doing this. Guidance in recording their observations. To enable identifying all the different species can be provided by this to be done in an easy but enjoyable the many local experts and experienced amateur way, HBIC in partnership with HIWWT and naturalists who are willing to help us achieve these the Recording Groups have set up ‘Living goals. Record’. This allows recorders and observers to map and download records HBIC maintains a repository of all species data whilst enabling the County Recorders to collected by the many groups that have carried out check the records before they are collated surveys or kept records in Horndean, and The and made available to HBIC. Hampshire County Council Arts and Museums Service has a large collection of specimens of plants and Each record has to include your name, animals. Details of the species that we currently know species name (or image file numbers if ID live in Horndean are described in the following is unknown), Grid reference, site name paragraphs. and date of observation. With Living Record all your species records can be
4.2 Mammals stored in one place. It has the great Horndean has small populations of both rare species advantage that it enables a Group to work such as Dormice, Hares and Bats as well as more collaboratively as a team, making it easy common species such as the Grey Squirrel. It can be to see each other’s records. HBG is difficult to establish details of current mammal recommending all members and wildlife populations as many mammals are nocturnal and observers to register and start recording numbers can fluctuate from year to year according to via Living Record. weather conditions and human activities. The Leaflets containing further information measures needed to either protect or control and registration forms can be downloaded populations that have been observed are described from www.livingrecord.net under the following species headings.
4.2.1 Hazel Dormouse These are rarely observed in Horndean primarily because they are nocturnal and spend most of their time in the trees and hibernate from late October to May depending on the climate and available food sources. Their preferred habitat comprises mixed deciduous woodland with coppiced hazel where there are many different plant and tree species to provide food all year round and good hedgerow connections to allow them to move between sites.
30 To arrest the decline in their numbers which has resulted from the loss of habitat our remaining fragments of ancient woodland need to be managed so as to encourage a variety of foodplants to grow at different times of the year; to increase wildlife corridors and maintain coppicing in areas such as Catherington Lith, Wick Hanger, Netherly Down and the Ancient Lanes linking with the isolated Yoell's Copse.
4.2.2 Hedgehog These animals are frequently found in Horndean gardens and, like dormice, are mainly nocturnal. They Hedgehog can travel long distances when foraging for food, their favourites being caterpillars, slugs, snails and earthworms which make them popular with gardeners. They can be encouraged into gardens by leaving piles of leaves and twigs around or by making a purpose built shelter.
Their survival can be helped by avoiding the use of slug pellets and checking long grass before cutting or strimming. Hedgehogs often rest in bonfire heaps and so these should be checked before lighting. However the biggest threat to them remains habitat loss and one way in which this can be reduced is for boundary hedgerows to be retained or planted.
4.2.3 Badger Badgers are generally nocturnal creatures that live within social groups underground in setts which are often on slopes and are easily identified by their numerous entrance holes and mounds of freshly excavated earth. Badgers can be found in many places around the Parish and a good example of their extensive setts can be found at Catherington Lith; others are found on the edge of footpaths in Blendworth and Lovedean. Their main diet consists of earthworms but they also eat berries, fungus and other grubs.
Although numbers are stable across the UK the highest cause of accidental death is by cars. Badgers are creatures of habit and use well-trodden routes. Building fences or roads through their territory will cut off access to food for them, however with special gates and careful planning access is not restricted.
4.2.4 Bats There are up to 17 species of bat in the UK, the following five of which have been recorded in Horndean: o Common Pipistrelle is our smallest and most common bat, emerging about 20 minutes after sunset. Frequently seen above garden ponds feeding on insects such as midges and moths. It is estimated that a Common Pipistrelle can eat as many as 3000 insects in a single night so to attract bats a garden needs to be insect rich. This can be achieved by growing pollen rich plants especially evening scented flowers such as tobacco plants, night scented stocks and evening primroses that will attract night flying insects. Brown Long Eared Bat
31 o Brown Long Eared. A common bat species that has very long ears, allowing it to detect its prey on the leaves of trees illustrated here by a specimen found in a garden in Five Heads Road in Horndean. o Natterer's . This has been recorded in Horndean. It is widespread in the UK however it is scarce and its population in this country is of international importance. o Noctule. Britain's largest bat and one of the earliest to emerge from its roost. Their flight is usually high near the tree tops. They have been seen near the top of Catherington Down o Serotine. Another rare species occurring in the south of England. These bats feed on large insects such as chafers and a decline in these could cause a reduction in Serotine numbers.
The urban landscape plays quite an important role for bats as many roosts can be found in homes and buildings. They travel considerable distances in search of food so that they may not roost and only use gardens and ponds as a feeding ground. Roosts can vary from ancient trees to old buildings and attics. One ancient tree on Catherington Down was thought to have four different species roosting in it. A number of bat boxes have been fixed up across the Parish in ancient woodland, open farmland and gardens, usually on mature oaks at a height of at least nine metres to be out of reach of cats.
The best and most accurate way of identifying and recording bats is by using bat detectors that can be tuned to pick up the frequency of each species call.
4.2.5 Moles and Shrews Moles live primarily underground and can be easily located by their characteristic mounds of soil found in grassland in areas where the soil is well drained and contains lots of earthworms such as Old School Field in Catherington. Although the way they dig through the soil is excellent for aerating the ground and allowing it to drain better the resulting mole hills can be a problem if they appear in lawns or playing fields. Vole Common Shrews are tiny animals that use their long tapering snout to sniff out their prey of beetles, worms and spiders and the shrews in turn are a source of food for predators such as kestrels. They can be found at most of our nature reserves and rarely live for more than a year.
4.2.6 Rodents These are the small mammals that include mice, rats and voles. Although mainly nocturnal they often visit bird feeders and gardens during the day where they can expect to find an abundant supply of nuts and seeds.
Although the Brown Rat is one of the commonest rodents it is not so often seen and is less likely to be caught by cats. However the rodent that is most often encountered is the Grey Squirrel that came originally from North America and now out-competes the native Red Squirrel and also carries the squirrel pox. Their numbers are steadily increasing which can be a problem as they can cause damage to native trees and garden plants as well as to loft spaces if they get into them.
4.2.7 Rabbits and hares Rabbits are probably the most widespread mammals in Horndean. Often thought of as a pest, they 32 can actually help manage habitats. Rabbits feed on grassland and can keep fast growing plants like nettles down allowing other plants to grow. At Hazleton Common and Catherington Down for example, grazing by rabbits has kept down lots of scrub that might take over. However, too many rabbits can also have an adverse effect by over grazing, as a result there is nothing but closely cropped grass in certain areas which is not good for wildflowers.
Unlike rabbits, Brown Hares do not use burrows but live in small depressions in the ground amongst long grasses in open grassland areas including arable fields in which they sit and sleep until feeding at night on tender grass Red Fox shoots and cereal crops.
The intensification of agriculture which has reduced the diversity of plant life in the countryside that hares need has resulted in a decline in their numbers as has the death of young Hares from disease or predation by foxes. Hares are generally solitary but will often join groups to feed. Hares produce two to four young per litter and may have up to four litters in one year.
4.2.8 Red Fox The Parish is home to a number of Red Foxes, frequently spotted in the countryside and can be watched in urban areas. They hold territories varying from half a hectare in urban areas up to 20 hectares in rural areas. Foxes are omnivorous and eat almost anything from mice, beetles and blackberries to the contents of black plastic bags and waste bins. Young Roe Deer in Bracken 4.2.9 Deer Roe Deer can be seen roaming the fields or nature reserves foraging for food. They generally eat buds, young shoots and leaves of trees and shrubs (including garden roses!) and for these reasons areas of coppiced woodland need to be fenced. They are frequently seen in all of our nature reserves. The one illustrated was sitting very still in Bracken in the centre of Dell Piece unnoticed by passers-by. On rare occasions Muntjac Deer have been seen at Catherington Lith.
4.3 Birds 4.3.1 Categories of conservation importance The RSPB’s three categories of conservation importance are shown for the birds described in this section that all have verified records within the Parish of Horndean. • The Red category is the highest conservation priority and applies to species needing urgent action; • Amber is the next most critical group, followed by
33 • Green that applies to species that occur regularly in the UK but do not qualify under any or the other two criteria. Full details of these categories are shown on the RSPB website.
Ideas as to how we can help to improve their habitats to attract occasional and migrating species and the regular breeding species to our gardens by providing food and water especially in winter and by providing secure nesting boxes and roosting places are described for Garden Birds, Woodland Birds, Farmland species, Wetland species, and Birds of Prey.
4.3.2 Garden Birds Throughout Horndean a large number of garden birdfeeders cater for healthy populations of common British birds and many people are now joining in the BTO Garden Birdwatch. This involves keeping regular records of species, and numbers visiting are entered on computer forms sent to BTO at regular intervals
Frequent visitors include Blackbird, Chaffinch, House Sparrow, Wood Pigeon, Dunnock, Blue Tit, Coal Tit, Great Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Green Finch, Goldfinch and in smaller numbers Song Thrush, amongst others. These species are mainly resident in the UK all year round and are very adaptable in terms of habitat in the winter months. Bird feeders provide a stable source of sustenance; however they may be vulnerable to domestic cats. Nuthatch 4.3.3 Woodland Birds Green Woodpecker (Amber Status) is a common resident throughout Horndean. This is the largest of Britain's woodpeckers. Its loud, distinctive 'yaffle' call makes it easy to recognise. This species is common in deciduous woodland, as well as in gardens. Its diet consists mainly of ants which it takes from anthills with its powerful beak.
Great-spotted Song Thrush Woodpecker (Green Status) and Lesser-spotted Woodpecker (Red Status). These pied woodpeckers are often seen clinging to tree trunks. They inhabit woodland , preferably with mature broadleaved trees. The Great-spotted frequently visits garden bird feeders but the Lesser-spotted woodpecker is much rarer although it has been seen in Yoell's Copse where it spends most of its time in the tops of trees burrowing for insects and larvae.
Nuthatch (Green Status) A small colourful bird that resembles a small woodpecker making a similar drilling noise. Seen widely throughout Horndean in mature woodland and a Semi-albino blackbird 34 frequent visitor of bird tables in the winter, as it is resident all year round, rarely straying far from the locality where it was hatched. It eats insects, seeds and nuts.
Treecreeper (Green Status) A small active bird which spends most of its life on trees and can often be seen moving up and down tree trunks, brown on top with whitish underparts They have a downwardly curved bill for extracting insects from the tree bark.
Goldcrest (Green Status) Britain's smallest bird, this species is partly resident all year round, partly migratory and tends to favour woodlands, coniferous or mixed, often seen high up in the canopy of pine trees.
4.3.4 Farmland Species
Sky Lark (Red Status) This species tends to be found in open countryside and are regularly seen and heard in reasonable numbers on Horndean Down (near Windmill Hill) and in Blendworth fields. It is currently in decline, particularly in the South of England, partially due to changes in habitat availability.
Corn Bunting (Red Status) Primarily a lowland farmland bird often seen around farms producing cereals and vegetables and uses an elevated, conspicuous position to give its song. It can be seen in similar locations to the Sky Lark, especially Windmill Hill. According to the RSPB website, the UK population of this species has declined by 90% since the 1970s.
Yellowhammer (Red Status) This attractive, yellow member of the bunting family prefers 'fringe habitat' between arable fields and more scrubby Yellowhammer in Blendworth vegetation and has a very distinctive call. Seen in past years on Catherington Down and now only seen around hedgerows in Blendworth.
4.3.5 Wetland Species Lapwing or Peewit (Red Status) Lapwing are characteristic of wet farmland or meadows and often form large flocks in the winter with distinctive display calls and flights during the breeding season. In Horndean this species can often be seen around Blendworth Common and towards our eastern boundary. As these birds are ground nesting they breed in areas that are undisturbed by mammals such as foxes.
Snipe (Amber Status) are extremely elusive, mottled brown wading birds with a long straight bill. They are rarely seen unless they are disturbed by the observer. In Horndean there are records of Snipe at Dell Piece West.
Mallard are characteristic of wetlands and ponds and is Britain's commonest duck. Often found nesting amongst vegetation on the edge of watercourses and ponds including Dell Piece West and Hazleton Common. They often visit garden ponds especially when tadpoles are present in early spring.
35 Heron are frequently seen in Horndean visiting larger ponds as at Dell Piece and smaller garden ponds.
4.3.6 Birds of Prey Common Buzzard (Green Status) Although historically persecuted, Buzzards are now one of Britain's most common and widespread birds of prey. Often seen soaring above Horndean. In flight , it has a fan shaped, spread tail. It breeds in stands of trees and woodlands that have easy access to open countryside. Two popular localities are Catherington Down and Pyle Farm Lane and the Holt.
Kestrel (Amber Status) Small falcon with reddish underparts, pointed wings and a long tail, Often seen hovering over scrubby, uncropped habitat, particularly on the verges of the A3(M) motorway.
Sparrowhawk (Green Status) Small bird of prey which specialises in hunting in confined spaces such as woodland and urban gardens where they will kill and eat blackbirds and collared doves as seen in the picture.
4.3.7 Owls Tawny Owl (Green Status) This enigmatic, nocturnal bird is known for making the stereotypical 'twit-twoo' call that owls are renowned for. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals. In Horndean, they are Sparrow Hawk on lawn resident in areas of ancient woodland such as Catherington Lith and Yoell's Copse where a number of Owl boxes are being placed and there are also some in urban gardens in the Bull's Copse area.
Barn Owls are rarely seen in Horndean although have nested around Catherington and Hinton in the past.
Little Owls are the smallest of the owls no bigger than a blackbird and have nested in hedgerows on the western boundary. With careful observation they can sometimes be seen perched in mature solitary oaks.
There are many other common species seen across the Parish such as Magpies, Jays, Starlings, Crows, Rooks and recently gulls, and seasonally Redwings and Fieldfares. Amongst the rarer birds seen some seasons in Horndean are Siskins, Bullfinches, Stonechats (at Hazleton Common) and Turtle Doves (Catherington Down).
In addition to the efforts of feeding and helping garden birds it is important to retain dead standing trees to provide natural nesting places and habitats for beetles which provide additional food for woodpeckers and nuthatches.
4.4 Reptiles and Amphibians In 2011, a study by the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust found that many species of reptiles and amphibians are currently in decline. This includes species which have traditionally been very common in the UK, such as Adders and even the Common Frog. Studies like this highlight the
36 importance of preserving the habitats of these species, so that they continue to inhabit the countryside for future generations.
Horndean contains a number of areas classified as acid grassland and lowland heath. These areas are known to contain populations of Common Lizard, Adder, Grass Snake and Slowworm. All of these reptiles are most easily spotted on bare surfaces during hot, sunny weather.
Hazleton Common LNR, which is being managed towards a lowland heath habitat, contains all of these species of reptile. This nature reserve provides their preferred habitat of low-lying, acidic vegetation types, interspersed with scrub and exposed areas, suitable for basking in the sun. The site also contains 3 permanent ponds and numerous ephemeral water bodies which are great for amphibians.
4.4.1 Common Adder Hazleton Common contains a significant population of Adders, which are best seen when they emerge from hibernation in the spring-time and begin shedding their dull winter skin, around April. This area is also home to a population of ‘Black Adders’, which are entirely black and can be mistaken for other species. Adders are different to most other reptiles, in that they give birth to live young, rather than lay eggs.
4.4.2 Common Lizard Common (or Viviparous) Lizards are a frequently seen resident of Hazleton Common, as well as other areas of Adder at Hazleton Common Horndean. This species thrives on wet, boggy heathland, which makes Hazleton Common perfect habitat.
As with many reptiles, Common Lizards are effectively ‘solar powered’, meaning that they are extremely active in hot sunny weather, but can appear to be lethargic during colder weather. Common Lizards are also able to shed their tails as a defence mechanism to predators.
4.4.3 Slow worm Despite their name, slow worms are a species of lizard. In keeping with other lizards, they have eyelids and this can be used to differentiate them from snakes. Slow worms are often seen as Common Lizard on boardwalk at Hazleton Common a gardener’s friend, as slugs can form a large part of their diet.
37 Slow worms prefer un-cropped vegetation and tend to hide under tin sheets or other surfaces that conduct heat in direct sunlight. Slow worm populations are currently undergoing national decline, partially due to loss of habitat. They can be found throughout Horndean, particularly where gardens contain compost heaps or other forms of warm cover in which they reside.
4.4.4 Grass Snake The Grass Snake is non-venomous and is widespread in Britain. Their habitat is usually rough vegetation within close proximity of standing water, as amphibians provide a major part of their diet. Females can reach a Slow worm in Horndean garden length of 130cm, making it the largest indigenous reptile in the UK.
4.4.5 Common Frog A common inhabitant of Britain’s garden ponds, the Common Frog is an extremely adaptable species that can also be found in many rural locations. They prefer to lay their eggs in shallow water but spend a lot of time outside of the breeding season in terrestrial habitats. Garden ponds are the most abundant habitat for Common Frogs, within Horndean.
Common Frogs can vary in terms of their colouring and interestingly, are known to be able to lighten or darken their skin, according to their surroundings. This species feeds on a variety of invertebrates that are of a suitable size. In turn, it is a food source for a large number of predators, including birds of prey, foxes and domestic cats.
4.4.6 Common Toad Identifiable from the Common Frog, due to the differing texture and colouring of the skin and the fact that it habitually walks, instead of hopping, the Common Toad shares many of its other lifecycle characteristics. Common toads spend far more time away from water than frogs, as they are more tolerant of drier conditions.
4.4.7 Smooth Newt The Smooth Newt is the most common newt in Britain and is also known as the ‘Common Newt’. During the breeding season, the male is easily identifiable by its crest. They often make characteristic ‘popping’ sounds while rising from water, for air. Standing water with plenty of vegetation is the preferred breeding habitat, whereas they can be found in a variety of locations at other times of the year. As well as Hazleton Common, Catherington Pond is a good place to see this species within Horndean.
4.4.8 Great-crested Newt This species is afforded the highest legal protection of any newt in the UK. It is relatively easy to identify, as both sexes are considerably larger than other UK species of newt. Because of its larger size, it can consume a larger amount of food than its smaller counterparts and therefore requires a habitat that can support this during the months that it is based on land, outside of the breeding
38 season. In the breeding season, males have a ragged crest on their back, separate to the straighter crest running along the ridge of the tail.
4.4.9 Palmate Newt The Palmate Newt is rarely larger than 6cm, making it Britain’s smallest species of newt. It is similar in appearance to the Smooth Newt and its lifecycle is also similar. Although widely distributed in the UK, it is commonly found in lowland heath habitat in the South and West of England, as they can withstand drier conditions than their two newt counterparts.
4.5 Invertebrates There are more invertebrate species in Britain than all the rest of the animal and plant species put together. They cover a tremendous range of ecological niches, some beneficial and some harmful to man. Because of this the major groups have been described separately, most amateur naturalists and ecologists specialise in only a small number of groups, the most popular without doubt being butterflies. Consequently many of the less popular groups are neglected but they all play an important part in the ecology of our local habitats. With over 20,000 species of insects in Britain we can only give attention to a very small number of ‘indicator’ or representative species.
In each of the following sections we give some idea of the species present, drawn from habitat surveys, HBIC records and the observations of local naturalists and specialists. The only group that has been systematically recorded is butterflies. The aim of this Action Plan is to encourage a greater local interest in all the other groups by recording species present and conserving their habitats. Grizzled Skipper on Catherington Down Actions and suggestions for conservation are detailed under each section with special reference to gardening, hedgerow and pond management.
Identification Accurate recording is essential for reliable surveys. To have a good idea of the species present in Horndean we need the help of regular visitors to our wildlife sites as well as the occasional visits by ecologists. Ranging from beginners to experts, they can be encouraged by knowing that there are many experts in Hampshire willing to help, also there are many new identification guides, and websites. Many people are now enjoying capturing their observations on camera and we are now building up a reference library of photographs; images can now be sent to experts for a quick identification or verification. Complete beginners can quickly become experts even in some of the lesser known groups of insects. Since many invertebrates are either very small or only come out at night, only a small Holly Blue on bluebell in Monarchs Way
39 percentage of our species are ever recorded but the list is growing. A sample of species seen in Horndean can be seen on our website - www.horndean biodiversity.co.uk
4.5.1 Butterflies and Moths Butterflies are the most popular group in Horndean and one that has been systematically recorded since 2000. Regular weekly transects have been done at six local sites from March until October. In addition local people are recording sightings of butterflies in their gardens. The Parish also has an excellent network of hedgerows many of which are of considerable age containing a rich 5-spot Burnet moth day flying mixture of native species valuable to butterflies and many other insect species.
The following notable or protected species have been seen in the Parish over the last 20 years:-
Species Habitats Years sighted Silver-washed Catherington Down, Catherington Lith, Hazleton 2004/11, best year 2009 Fritillary Common, Windmill Hill and the Holt Small Heath frequent at Windmill Hill and the Holt Widespread 2004/11, best year 2005 Chalkhill Blue Windmill Hill, and Catherington Lith 2001/9 Dingy Skipper Catherington Down and Windmill Hill 2009/12, Best Year 2011 Grizzled Skipper Catherington Down, Windmill Hill and the Holt 2009/12 White Admiral The Holt and Windmill Hill 2006/11
Day Flying Moths. Recorders have been noting moths whilst doing Transects at Dell Piece West and Hazleton Common. Amongst the more common butterflies a large number of ‘Browns’ are seen annually on the open grassland sites such as Catherington Down, Dell Piece West and fields in Blendworth including Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Ringlet and Gatekeeper.
Many species keep to the same spot each year and so conservation of favourite butterfly haunts can be guided by specific requirements. It is not practical to introduce new species unless they are known to have occurred in a locality in the past and sites are studied to check suitability. The number of migrant species visiting Horndean varies from year to year. Most years Painted Ladies (hundreds in 2009), and Clouded Yellows are seen. Of the ‘residents’ Red Admirals, Small White Admiral at the Holt Tortoishells, Peacocks, Commas are frequent and larval nests are usually found on the nettle patches at Catherington Downs and Blendworth fields and hedgerows and on one occasion a Large Tortoishell was seen at Soakfield Row in 2009, and caught on camera. Numbers fluctuate but of the Whites there are good numbers of Large, Small and Green-veined whites and our regular favourites in early spring are Brimstones and Orange Tips. There are few Hairstreaks but always Large and Small Skippers (incl. Essex Skipper)
40 What butterflies require. There are four main requirements - foodplants for the caterpillars, a source of nectar from flowers for the adults, a sunny and sheltered habitat and a suitable place to overwinter or hibernate. Although the adults will go to a range of flowers for nectar, the caterpillars are fussy and will only feed on a restricted range of plants and these need to be at a suitable stage of growth. Specific foodplant requirements should be kept in mind when producing action plans for creating wild flower meadows, improving grass verges, maintaining hedgerows and managing gardens for wildlife.
Moths are less familiar than butterflies, mainly because the vast majority of them are nocturnal, but they are one of the most rewarding groups to study. Over 2400 species have been recorded in the UK. There has been an increase in the study of moths in recent years and annual reports have been produced in Horndean since 2005, all records are sent to the county recorder. Moths are divided into two groups, the micro-moths and the macro-moths. This is an Privet Hawk Moth artificial split of larger and smaller moths. There are almost twice as many ‘micros’ than ‘macros’ and confusingly some of the micros are larger than the macros. Well over 500 species of moths have been recorded in Horndean. Many, especially the micros, are difficult to identify, although aids to doing this such as field guides on websites can assist.
Day flying moths. Many species have been recorded by the ‘butterfly’ team whilst doing transects. The best sites in Horndean are Dell Piece West, Hazleton Common and Catherington Down. In addition to day flying moths many species can be found resting in foliage or on tree trunks but to survive they have to be well camouflaged. The most notable species, (all seen at Dell Piece West/Hazleton Common) are Five-spot Burnet, Cinnabars, Mother Shipton, Burnet Micro-moth on young oak Companion, Magpie, Silver Y, Yellow Shell and a bright green micro with very long antennae called Adella. Further afield the Speckled Yellow is very common on heathland. In gardens a spectacular sight on a summer evening is the Hummingbird Hawk-moth. A Yellow-legged Clearwing was seen on Hazleton Common in 2012 so we are always on the lookout for unexpected rarities, many of which mimic bees, wasps, flies and other insects.
Value to the Ecosyste. Moths play an important role in the countryside as they are an important food source for many bird species and are a major food source for bats and spiders. Moths are also preyed upon by other insects such as beetles. Moth caterpillars are also hosts to parasitic wasps and flies, are food for lizards and small mammals and most important they play a valuable part as pollinators. Scarce Silver Lines
41 Only a small number of species eat our clothes or become a major pest. In Horndean the Brown-tail moth occurs on Horndean Down in controllable numbers and on rare occasions a small micro moth has produced millions of caterpillars which can defoliate a completer hedgerow, but the hedgerow (such as the one in Lovedean Lane in 2007) makes a complete recovery within a few months. Tachinid Fly
4.5.2 Dragonflies and Damselflies Dragonflies are the essence of summer. There can be Male Broad-bodied Chaser few more enjoyable ways of spending a summer’s day than strolling along the banks of a meandering river or sitting quietly at the edge of a pond, watching the activities of dragonflies and damselflies as they flutter and dart among fringing plants. Dragonflies are fascinating insects with complex behavioural traits that are often easy to observe.
Thirty eight species of Dragonfly are known to breed in GB and Ireland today. Their survival is by no means assured. Since 1945, three species that formerly bred in England have become extinct; many other species are far less common than they were 40 years ago
There are five small ponds in the Horndean area with one in north Clanfield village, and two in the Queen Elizabeth Country Park which are open to public view and which support dragonflies. There are also a greater number of private ponds in gardens which are not generally open to public viewing.
Dragonflies and Damselflies need a pond, river, stream or ditch to mate, breed, lay eggs and for the larvae to mature before emergence as free flying insects and will frequently patrol and guard their home territory. Many Dragonflies will however Azure Damselfly venture from their home pond and may been seen in areas far from water. The active dragonfly season varies by species and generally lasts from late April through the summer into September.
Ponds in Horndean that are good habitats for dragonflies and are accessible to the public include Hazleton Common, Catherington village pond, Pyle Farm and The Holt.
4.5.3 Flies There are over 100,000 known species of flies in the Order Diptera. Unlike bees they have only one pair of Southern Hawker
42 wings as the hind pair of wings is reduced to pin-shaped structures called haltares which act as gyroscopes to maintain balance in flight. There are a very large number of families of flies but only a few have been recorded in Horndean. Although flies are not very popular, few of them are pests or nuisances and many are beneficial. Hoverflies are good pollinating species and their larvae are ferocious aphid hunters. They have no stings and are harmless. The main three families that have been studied are mostly easily identified without the use of a microscope.
The most popular group for study are the Hoverflies. They are fairly easy to identify and can Hoverfly be found across the Parish in all habitats including gardens (and in greenhouses). Some species are small and dark in colour but most have distinctive markings and some are remarkable for their resemblance to wasps and bees, even bumble bees. A large number of both wild and garden flowers attract hoverflies, such as Ladybird Fly buttercups, roses, brambles, ragwort, knapweed and they are comfortably examined on umbellifers especially cow parsley and hogweed. Gardens, hedgerows and semi woodland areas such as Dell Piece West are amongst ideal places to see hoverflies.
A Horndean Hoverfly Survey is proposed for 2015 to promote wildlife surveys amongst members in a similar way to a survey being carried out by Southampton Natural History Bee-fly Society during 2013 in their members’ gardens.
Crane Flies are slender, long-legged and familiar to most. There are at least 10 species recorded in Horndean, they occur in most habitats especially grasslands and hedgerows.
The other group is the Tachinid Flies, the larvae of which are all internal parasites mainly on other insects. There are also dung flies, blow flies, bee-flies, house flies, horse flies, mosquitoes and others. In all there are over 5,000 species in Britain. Local studies will concentrate on Hoverflies, but a few of the more interesting species are shown here and several more are on Horndean Biodiversity Group website.
Dragonfly larva ready to hatch
43 There are a small number of notable species of flies on the HBIC Records listed here. Few have common names.
Common Latin Name Status Location Year Name Hornet Asilus HBAP, NN Seen in Five Heads Rd, 2010 robberfly crabroniformis Horndean A picture- Chetostoma IUCN_GB_pre94:VU Dell Piece West 2001 winged fly curvinerve Ladybird fly Gymnosoma IUCN_GB_pre04:R Dell Piece West, 2001, rotundatum Blendworth HRs 2006-2010 Hoverfly Volucella inanis NN Catherington Down 2009 Hoverfly Volucella inflata NN Dell Piece West 2001 Hoverfly Volucella zonaria NN Dell Piece West 1999, most years > 2011 4.5.4 Bees, Wasps and Ants “Bees, Wasps and Ants are among the most important animals on the planet and are essential for the survival of countless other species – ourselves included” From George McGavin of the Bees, Wasps and Ants Recording Society (‘BWARS’)
In Horndean at least 20 notable or BAP species have Common Wasp been recorded on the grassland and woodland sites and several surveys have been carried out by Mike Edwards a prominent member of BWARS and the county recorder for Hampshire at Dell Piece West, Yoells Copse and Catherington. Hazleton Common and Dell Piece provide the best areas for a study of bees and wasps including gall wasps in the Parish. Across the Parish a number of pits, Hoverfly mimicking a bumble bee quarries and dells also provide excellent habitats for bees and wasps.
Plant Galls and Parasitic Wasps. Galls are mostly the work of small solitary and parasitic wasps. A variety of species can be found at Dell Piece West from oak Apples to Robin’s pincushion. Much in evidence some years is the malformed acorn gall made by the small wasp Andricus quercuscalicis.
Wool Carder Bee
44 Notable species of Bees and Wasps in Horndean on the HBIC records
Latin Name Details Status Location Year Andrena bucephala Bee NS Catherington Lith 2004 Andrena alfkenella Mining bee IUCN_GB_ Parsonage Field 2003 pre94:R Hazleton Common 2001 Catherington Lith 2004 Andrena minutaloides West Palaeacctic species NS Parsonage Field 2003 Catherington Lith 2004 Andrena bimaculata NS Parsonage Field 2003 Bombus rupestris Hill Cuckoo Bee NS UKBAP Yoells Copse 2002 Parsonage Field 2003 Catherington Lith 2003/4 Bombus humilis Brown-banded Carder UK & Parsonage Field 2003/4 Bee HBAP Bombus sylvarum Shrill Carder Bee NS, UK & Dell Piece West 2001 HBAP Ceratina cyanea Blue Carpenter Bee IUCN_GB_ Dell Piece West 2001 pre94:R Hazleton Common 2001 Dolichovespula media Large median wasp NS Hazleton Common 2001 Catherington Lith 2004 Dolichovespula saxonica- Saxon wasp - Difficult ID IUCN_GB_ Catherington Lith 2004 pre:IK Eucera nigrescens Very rare IUCN_GB_ Dell Piece West 2001 pre:EN Heriaides truncorum Rare in Hampshire IUCN_GB_ Parsonage Field 2003 pre:IK Hylaus cornutus NS Catherington Lith 2004 Lasioglossum malachurum Small European halictid NS Parsonage Field 2003 bee Lasioglossum pauxillum Bee NS Parsonage Field 2003 Dell Piece West 2001 Hazleton Common 2001 Catherington Lith 2004 Melitta tricincta Likes red bartsia flowers NS Parsonage Field 2003 Dell Piece West 2001 Catherington Lith 2004 Nomada fucata A cleptoparasite of the NS Yoells Copse 2002 Yellow-legged Mining Bee Nomada Hirtipes A smallish dark Nomada IUCN_GB_ Catherington Lith 2004 pre:R Sphecodes crassus A cuckoo bee NS Parsonage Field 2003
Descriptions of all species with distribution maps and photographs can be found on the BWARS website.
45 Ants in Horndean There are no systematic studies of ant species in Horndean but the most conspicuous presence of ants is on Catherington Down where the Yellow Meadow Ant has built many anthills on the lower slopes of the down. These are built up over many years and some may be of a great age.
Most people are familiar with the Black Garden Ant but this species has diminished in recent years and, like the Common Wasp may soon become a Ant Hills on Catherington Down rarity largely due to very efficient means of eradication.
See ‘Further Reading’ at the end of this document for more information on the subjects covered in this section. 4.5.5 Beetles BEETLES - Order Coleoptera
There are around 4000 species of beetles in the UK. One of the most interesting and successful groups of insects but they are under-recorded. Beetles are most often seen crossing roads and paths in the Parish; their favoured Bumble Bee on Comfrey habitat being hedgerows especially those with grass verges but one of the best places to see beetles is in our own gardens where they can be encouraged by having small log piles or heaps of deadwood. They can be found in a great variety of places such as under logs and stones, amongst grass roots and in water, dung and carrion.
The Stag Beetle is a Hampshire BAP species. It has not been recorded recently in Horndean but there are several past records mostly in gardens especially those with mature oaks such as in the vicinity of Bull’s Copse and Merchistoun Road. The big white grubs with an orange head take 3 to 4 years to mature and feed in wood in a mid- stage of decay. Its smaller ally the Lesser Stag Longhorn Beetle Beetle is common in Horndean.
The Glow-worm is not common and probably declining but we do have a small colony on our western boundary near Broadhalfpenny Down. Glow-worms can be seen in Havant Thicket. It is a beetle that preys on snails. One very prominent large beetle frequently seen in Horndean is the Cockchafer or Maybug. They are easily recognised because of their large size, clumsy flight and loud droning buzz. From mid-May onwards they are attracted to light and can be heard bouncing off the window. They are Lesser Stag Beetle on Parsonage Field
46 frequently found in gardens and often come to moth traps. The most frequently seen group of beetles are the Ladybirds. There are about 42 species recorded in Britain and most are easily recognised. This group is under-recorded in Horndean; they are easily seen and identified. Southampton Natural History Society has produced a small handbook on Ladybirds, well- illustrated with an Identification key.
Many beetles have striking colours and patterns including the many Longhorn Beetles which are frequently seen in Horndean gardens. Some are unwelcome pests such as the bright red Lily Beetle, also some members of the Weevil family. There are many other groups of beetles such as Burying beetles, Oil beetles, Dung beetles, Soldier beetles and Chafers Cockchafer in Horndean Garden each with their own specific habitat. A large number of small species can be found along the hedgerows in May and June on the flower heads of Cow Parsley and Hogweed. Such a large and varied group deserves more study and the Parish needs to build up a database.
4.5.6 Shield Bugs and Squashbugs The Hemiptera includes two groups both of which have species that can be found in our gardens and in our grassland areas such as Dell Piece West. Bugs vary in size 22-spot Ladybird and shape but all possess sucking and piercing mouthparts adapted for sucking the juices of plants and some animals. The Hemiptera are divided into two groups :-Heteroptera, the true bugs and the Homoptera which include cicadas, leafhoppers, aphids and scale insects. Although aphids, scale insects and white fly are not welcome by gardeners they are a very important food source for tits and other small birds and therefore it is important to not use pesticides
Shield Bugs. Several species of shield bug have been found in Horndean in grassland (Dell Piece West, Hazleton Common), hedgerows and woodland, and they are frequently found in gardens, occasionally coming into the house. They have been recorded over a number of years by local naturalists. They are a good group for further study and systematic recording. Usually well camouflaged and perfectly matching the colour of the plants that they are resting on, many species go unseen. There Shield Bug are several Aquatic bugs such as water boatmen and pod skaters that can leave the water and fly considerable distances. One of the largest families of bugs is the Mirid or Capsid bugs. They are mostly small but with distinctive markings and may be confusing when trying to identify. They frequently come to moth traps.
47 4.5.7 Other Invertebrates Land Snails and Slugs. About 90 species of land snails and 12 species of slugs are found in the British Isles. Apart from the common Garden Snail and the Banded Snail most species of snail are much smaller, are found in the leaf litter and are easily overlooked. Slugs and snails mostly feed on rotted vegetation and fungi which will benefit the garden as it recycles dead plant material returning it to the soil. They also provide food for slow worms, other reptiles, frogs, birds, hedgehogs and ground beetles but have a reputation for eating garden plants. The use of slug pellets can harm animals that may eat the pellets directly; however there are now a number of less harmful methods of controlling numbers of slugs described in the RHS/Wildlife Trust’s “Wildlife Gardening for Everyone” 26
Surveys in Horndean A survey of snails in the East Hampshire Hangers was held in 2000 and concentrated on four species, the Lapidary Snail, the Cheese Snail, the Land Winkle and the Mountain Bullin. The aim of this project was to (1) get local people involved in species recording and (2) to get a better idea of the distribution of the four species of snail within the Hangers. Sites chosen in Horndean were at Wick Hanger and Catherington Lith. The Land Winkle was at these sites and the Lapidary Snail had two records at Catherington Lith. Although there were many empty shells it is important to record living specimens and this is sometimes difficult as many snails are active at night and when it is humid. This survey was a joint initiative between HIWWT, EHDC and the Conchological Society.
A full survey of snails and slugs at Catherington Lith was carried out in the same year (2000) by Dr June Chatfield and a total of 37 species was recorded, further recording would likely bring the total to over 40 species. Surveys at Hazleton Common and Dell Piece West in August 1995 by June Chatfield and again by David Ball in August 1998 recorded over 20 species. All surveys are very dependent on weather and climate change and in recent years the wet seasons should favour many species especially in areas of ancient woodland or where there is plenty of leaf litter and dead wood.
Other Invertebrate Groups There are many other Groups present in Horndean that have not been surveyed or included in this document but they do nevertheless play an important part in the local ecology and would considerably add to the list of species existing in the Parish largely in the soil. These include Earthworms, Millipedes, Centipedes, Woodlice, Lacewings, Scorpionflies, and Earwigs.
4.5.8 Spiders and Harvestmen
Wasp Spider Not everyone’s choice for study but they cannot be ignored and are an important part of the ecosystem. House spiders that run across the living room floor (usually males looking for females) and their webs that cross our path in the autumn. It is surprising that there are over 600 species found in Britain and most of these are in the south of England. In a survey of invertebrates at Dell Piece West and Hazleton Common in August and September 2001 by Dick Jones, over 60 species of spiders and 2 species of harvestmen were recorded. Dell Piece West had the greatest number of species per area and at that time had the greatest range of habitat, Hazleton Common had an extensive cover of brambles. In this survey 4 nationally scarce species were recorded – a comb-footed spider called Steatoda nobilis, Zila diodia, Tetragnatha pinicola and the remarkable Wasp Spider.
48 The Wasp spider is a large and spectacular spider that builds an orb web, similar to a garden spider but with a zig-zag ladder running vertically through the centre of the web and nearby there will be a large brown egg sac. At Dell Piece West they seem attracted to yellow fleabane for web building. Also seen occasionally on Horndean Down
About four species of Harvestmen are frequently found across the Parish, especially around houses and in gardens, easily recognised with their very long legs spread out flatly on walls and tree trunks mainly in the autumn or at harvest time as the name would imply. The False Widow Spider is worth a note as it has been increasingly found in Horndean and there have been reports of it biting but it is not as poisonous as the Black Widow spider. It is thought to have been introduced from the Canary Islands with banana imports and first reported by Steve McKnight in Merchistoun Road. The one illustrated was found in a Victory Avenue garden shed. It is about pea-sized with a shiny black body and often a grey pattern can be seen. False Widow Spider They are mostly female as the male is smaller and often gets eaten by the female.
Ecological Value Smaller spiders form a valuable food source for small birds such as blue-tits, coal tits, sparrows and robins. The birds frequently enter greenhouses, sheds and hunt under window frames and ledges where there is food all year round.
4.5.9 Grasshoppers and Crickets Grasshoppers and Crickets are under-recorded in Horndean and yet we have two very good sites which are host to a number of species - Catherington Down and Dell Piece West. Numbers of each species fluctuates from year to year according to weather patterns.
4.6 Fungi Fungi are not animals or plants and they are mostly out of sight except at fruiting time. They are however our greatest recycling agent. Many are parasites or cause disease when attacking our garden plants, crops and trees (eg. Rusts, Mildews, Grasshopper Honey Fungus and Dutch Elm Disease). Fungi are nevertheless a very important part of our biodiversity and an essential part of the ecosystem.
The best sites for seeing fungi are Catherington Lith, Yoells Copse, Hazleton Common and Wick Hanger. Common and rare fungi can be found almost anywhere but they are unpredictable and few records have been kept in the Parish. Fungal Forays are the best way to see fungi. Every year several walks are organised by Hampshire Wildlife Trust and the Hampshire Fungus Recording Group. Events are mostly held from September to November and details are listed on their websites and
49 newsletters. An illustrated record of fungi seen in Horndean can be found on www.horndeanbiodiversity.co.uk/fungi.
Importance to Conservation Fungi recycles nutrients, by breaking down dead wood. Most importantly, they form an association with the roots of plants by obtaining important nutrients for the plant. Recent research suggests that 85% of all plant species use this partnership (mycorrhizal) to Porcelain fungi obtain their nutrients. In Horndean this could play an important part in the welfare of bluebells and orchids, both a valuable part of the local flora.
The Glomales are a little known or seen group of fungi that play a very important part in all natural ecosystems. They are the main order of fungi that live in association with plant roots to form mycorrhiza. The fungal hyphae actually enter root cells to exchange nutrients. The fungi, (since they do not photosynthesise) receive carbohydrates from green plants which in turn receive nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates from the fungi. This is a symbiotic relationship beneficial to both partners. There are a number of species but they do not produce visible fruiting bodies as in other fungi and the hyphae in the roots of plants such as bluebells can only be seen with a microscope. These ‘unseen’ species are difficult to study or identify but they cannot be ignored when they are so important to biodiversity. The big problem is how to manage and conserve species that we cannot see and that so little is known about – their decline could have disastrous effects on our biodiversity.
Threats to Fungi. Extreme weather conditions with unseasonable periods of drought alternating with periods of heavy rain will affect fungal growth and will contribute to a Jelly Fungus on Elder drop in the recycling of leaves and plant material by fungi and bacteria. Following recent dry winters it is apparent that leaves in woodland and gardens are taking longer to rot down.
Trampling and soil compaction add to the many factors affecting beneficial soil fungi and ultimately affecting the health of our flora including our trees. Once trees and plants come under stress they are more likely to be affected by harmful fungi and disease.
Fly Agaric Toadstool
50 Identification There are many well-illustrated field guides to fungi. There is considerable variation in the form and colour of many species making ID difficult and most guides can only include a selection of species. It is worth carrying a small mirror to ease the viewing of gills and stem on the underside of mushrooms.
4.7 Bryophytes (Mosses and liverworts) These small, non-vascular plants play a vital role in regulating ecosystems because they provide Fungi on Catherington Down an important buffer system for other plants which live alongside and benefit from the water and nutrients that bryophytes collect.
Mosses and Liverworts are around all through the year but the best time to study them is in mid- winter when everything else had died back. Mild and wet winters are beneficial to the rapid growth of mosses consequently over recent years they have become a more noticeable feature. Ecologically they are of great value because, not only provide a home for many small creatures, they in turn provide a valuable source of food for small birds in the winter.
We are very fortunate that the 'Flora of Hampshire' Sulphur Polypore on Yew has a chapter devoted to the County Bryophyte flora written by the late Francis Rose and A.Crundell. This chapter also gives a short history of moss recording in the county. Around 500 species have been recorded in the county (out of a 1000 or more recorded in the UK) Well over 50 species have been recorded in Horndean and with the help of dedicated volunteers this number would be much higher.
Mosses are found almost everywhere but a good place to start recording is at home, on paths, walls and the tiles on the roof. Some new roofs near Yoell's Copse have become totally covered in less than five years.
Most of our ancient woodland has a large number of species built up over a long period of time but cultivated land (including garden lawns) also hosts a good number of species but they are tiny and unobtrusive. Polytrichum Moss on Monarch's Way
51 The nearest most people get to studying mosses is when raking the lawn or scraping the paths, but closer examination with a lens reveals their great beauty and variety. Most species do have common names but they are not so well known as in flowering plants and so the Latin names are more commonly used. They are difficult for the beginner to identify and Mosses covering old oak roots a good way to learn about them is to grow them at home in dishes or trays.
The only area in Horndean that has been surveyed in details is Yoell's Copse where a rich variety of mosses and liverworts including some rarities can be found, not only on tree trunks but growing on the ancient boundary banks especially near the ponds and also around the pits and hollows. A bryophyte survey on 6th February 2008 was carried out by R.C.Stern and P.Jones in Yoell's Copse and recorded 20 species of Mosses and six species of Liverwort. Common Thallose Liverwort Liverworts are harder to spot and often only show as a dull green patch on a tree trunk growing amongst mosses or lichens and almost disappear altogether in dry summers but, like mosses, have amazing powers of recovery. Most of the liverworts in Yoell's Copse are Leafy Liverworts but more familiar are the Thallose Liverworts often found on garden paths or on soil in flower pots, an example of each is shown in the photographs. More details of bryophytes in Horndean can be found on the biodiversity website. There are many recent guides for identification but the best for beginners and experts is "Mosses and Liverworts of Britain and Ireland - a field guide" produced by the British Bryological Society. Rod Stern who surveyed Yoell's Copse is the county recorder.
4.8 Lichens Over 500 species of lichens have been recorded in both Hampshire and West Sussex with the greatest number in Leafy liverwort
52 the New Forest. South-east Hampshire is more agricultural with few hard rock outcrops but in Horndean there is a good range of lichen species across the Parish.
Apart from the churchyards, not many surveys have been carried out, particularly on our trees and areas of ancient woodland. The other main habitats where lichens Lichens are prominent are stone or flint buildings, tree trunks and twigs in urban and rural areas, and walls, paths, fences and roof tops.
Although difficult for beginners to identify, there are many helpful guides, keys and local courses available. The British Lichen Society website32 also contains a photo- ID section.
Lichens on Tree Trunks and Twigs The best time to study lichens on trees is in the winter. Lichens like sunlight and in local woodland like Yoells Copse and Wick Hanger they mostly grow in the canopy and are best studied after winter gales when branches fall to the ground. In Yoells Copse during the 2011/12 winter several sessile oaks were felled as part of the management plan, this was a good opportunity to study lichens living at the higher levels of the tree. Measurements have shown that most lichens grow at over 50 feet where light levels are highest and mosses dominate the lower part of the trunk. Most of the oaks examined were Sessile oaks which, like English oak has a fairly strongly acidic bark.
The best tree species for lichens in Horndean are:- English and Sessile oak, Alder and Birch all having strongly acidic bark Hazel, Ash, Willow and Veteran oaks with mildly acidic bark Acers - Maples and Sycamore Many on urban roadside trees Hawthorns and Blackthorn Strong growth of lichens on twigs on Catherington Down
Lichens on Walls, Paths, Fences and Roof-Tops
Many species can be found in gardens on paving stones, concrete and mortar. In rural and urban open spaces lichens will Lichens colonise wooden gates and stiles. There are many flint walls in Horndean on which lichens add colour and maturity with colonies growing on the flint surface as well as the mortar. A good example is the old flint wall around St.Giles churchyard in Old Blendworth. A large part of the surrounding wall has recently been rebuilt but a lichen survey was done prior to this, several species were found growing on the old section around the wall-letterbox to the left of the entrance gate.
53 The tops and sides of red brick walls along Catherington Lane and Vincent Crescent have bright orange lichens, and an interesting grey lichen easily identified by the small cup-like structures up to 2cm tall growing from the base. There are good communities of lichens on the staddle stones supporting the old Grain Store along Catherington Lane. Even concrete paving stones soon become colonised by crusty lichens and can be found around the Co-Op corner shop at Kingsmead, Cowslips and Germander Speedwell not to be mistaken for chewing gum!
Lichens provide a safe habitat for a number of very small species of invertebrates such as snails, beetles, mites and bugs. They also make a good resting place for some species of moths that merge into a camouflaged background. They are integrated as a part of the woodland ecosystem and can survive in the most hostile environments on earth.
4.9 Wildflowers Horndean has a rich variety of wild flower species found in a range of habitats and soil types, from ancient woodland and wetland to heathland, grassland and chalk downland. In urban areas a Dropwort on Catherington Down number of native species still survive in corners of gardens, churchyards, school grounds and grass verges in spite of continuous clipping and mowing. Locally, many of these species are in decline – it is an important part of this plan to encourage gardeners and local communities by suggesting actions that will help these species to survive, and be appreciated as wild flowers, not just weeds.
Details of wildflowers seen in the Parish are shown in the following table.
Common Name Latin Name Status Location Records Slender Soft=brome Bromus Lepidus CR Catherington Down 1 record in 1995 * Smooth Brome Bromus racemosus CS Anmore Dell Farm 1 record in 2002 * Basil Thyme Clinopodium acinos UK BAP, CS Near Bat & Ball PH 1 record in 2001 * Frog Orchid Coeloglossum viride UK BAP, Catherington Lith Last seen 1997 Catherington Down Dwarf Spurge Euphorbia exigua UK and H Snell’s Corner 1 record in 1997 BAP CR Eyebright Euphrasia NS Catherington Down Frequent most years pseudokerneri Bluebell Hyacinthoides CS Present on all SINCs Frequent every year nonscripta Toothwort Lathraea squamaria AWI Catherington Down, Frequent most years Catherington Lith,
54 Common Name Latin Name Status Location Records Ham Lane Summer Snowflake Leucojum aestivum H BAP Catherington Lith Seen 1989 to 2010 Narrow-leaved Bird’s- Lotus glaber Dell Piece West, 1998 to 2012 foot-trefoil Hazleton Common Field Cow-wheat Mellampyrum Rare (nHR - Yoells Copse & 1998 to 2012 arvense VC11) James Copse Fringed Water-lily Nymphoides peltata NR,CI AWI Catherington Pond 1998 onwards Corky-fruited Water- Oenanthe NS Stubbins Down 1 record 1996 * dropwort pimpinelloides (Catherington Lith ) Greenwinged Orchid Orchis morio H BAP HS Anmore Dell Fm, HZ 2 records ’89, 2002 * Yellow-juiced Poppy Papaver dubium, CS Nr Clanfield 1 record in 2000 lecoqii Observatory Rough Poppy Papaver hybridum SHS Day Lane 1 record in 2001 * Round-headed Phyteuma orbiculare NS Catherington Down A few most years Rampion Chalk Milkwort Polygala calcarea HS Catherington Down, 2 records ’87 & 2000 Netherley Down Sweet-briar Rosa rubiginosa agg. CS Snell’s Corner 1 record 1998 Wild Service-tree Sorbus torminalis HS AWI Yoells Copse All years 1997- 2012 Autumn Lady’s Spiranthes spiralis HS Catherington Down 1 record 1998 tresses
On all our local nature reserves and habitats it is important to record and monitor the progress of species, and to keep under close control the spread of invasive species such as ivy, brambles, bracken and check for the presence of alien imports such as Himalayan Balsam, Knotweed, Rhododendron, Spanish bluebells and garden escapes.
A serious problem is the dumping of garden waste as this may contain seeds or roots that grow and spread into areas containing native flora. This especially applies to hedgerows and ancient woodland where any bluebell bulbs in the waste could grow and hybridise with the native English bluebells.
Native bluebells
Native bluebells carpet most of our local woodlands and is one of our best loved flowers. It is a welcome and wonderful sight to see in April and May each year. However there is now growing concern that the survival of the native species is being threatened. Every effort must be made to save the bluebells for future generations. Despite its abundance it is quite a demanding plant and the current extremes of climate do not help. The deep roots of bluebells become waterlogged if the water level is too high. The sappy leaves have poor powers of water conduction, and they Native Bluebells
55 cannot live on very dry soils either, apart from in hollows and dells. The species is however reasonably accommodating if the soil water content is right. In Horndean on our moderately acid sandy loams bluebells survive, often growing with bracken as seen at Hazleton Common and Dell Piece West where they are often accompanied by wood anemones. Bluebells also do Cow wheat in Yoell's Copse well on the clay and chalky ancient woodland sites such as Catherington Lith, Wick Hanger and small copses and lanes in the north west of the Parish.
Action to save the bluebells
Although little can be done about the changing climate there are positive ways in which we can help their survival. The two main threats are
(i) Hybridisation with the introduced Spanish Bluebell Hyancinthoides hispanica. Introduced around 1680 and crossing with the native species to produce the hybrid that is very common in many Horndean gardens and has been recorded in woodland and hedgerow since 1963.
WHAT CAN WE DO? Remove and destroy any Spanish or hybrid bluebells in your garden. The plants must not be composted nor dumped as green waste in hedgerows or woodland. It is best to dig them up immediately after flowering and leave them in the sun with leaves intact to dry out for at least a month to ensure that they are dead.
(ii) Heavy Public use. Many of our best bluebell woods are open to the public and are often trampled by visitors not keeping to the established footpaths and often creating criss-cross path or short cuts to avoid muddy areas. This is a particular problem at Catherington Lith, Yoells Copse and north at bluebell woods in Clanfield.
To protect bluebells from being damaged in this way, muddy paths could be covered with wood chippings or other appropriate natural material. Notices could then be displayed requesting that people keep to the paths, and natural barriers such as brushwood and dead wood or log piles could be laid adjacent to the paths to form natural borders. Round Headed Rampion
56 Flowers on Chalk Downland
The main site to see chalk downland flowers is Catherington Down. A small area can be seen on the east side of Catherington Lith known as Stubbins Down.
The best time to visit Catherington Down is in July and August. The following species can always be seen on Moschatel on Catherington Down the Down but their numbers vary from year to year and a few species become very invasive whereas others are often difficult to find. They all suffer from trampling but it is important to carry out regular surveys to monitor changes in the flora and offer guidance to the management programme. Some species have declined in recent years.
Bird’s Foot-Trefoil, Black Medick, Bulbous Buttercup, Burnet-Saxifrage, Clustered Bellflower, Cowslip, Dropwort, Dwarf Thistle, Fairy Flax, Harebell, Knapweed, Lady’s Bedstraw, Marjoram, Milkwort, Quaking Grass, Red Bartsia, Red Clover, Restharrow, Ribwort and Hoary Plantain, Rock Rose, Rough Hawkbit, Round-Headed Rampion, Salad Burnet, Selfheal, Small Scabious, Tufted Vetch, Yellow Rattle, Wild Strawberry, Wild Thyme. This is a general list and does not contain orchids or grasses. A full list of species can be found on an HBIC Survey Summary carried out on Catherington Down by Ian Ralphs in July 2006.
4.10 Flowers in Ancient Woodland Horndean has a number of isolated woodland sites that still support a good ground-layer of woodland flowers. Most of these areas are relics of semi natural Ancient Woodland and contain a number of plants in the ground-layer that are Indicators of Ancient Woodland (AWIS or AWVPs). The four areas of Ancient Woodland in Horndean that have been regularly surveyed for their ground flora are Catherington Lith with 31 AWVPs, Blendworth Lith and Wick Hanger both with 33 AWVPs , and Yoells Copse with 39 AWVPs .
Many of our woodland flowers have a strong affinity for ancient woodland and are rarely found elsewhere, and the following species are strong indicators that they were growing in an area of woodland that had been in existence for many hundreds of years. Throughout the 1980’s, the Nature Conservancy (now Natural England) compiled a national inventory of ancient woodland. Those in Horndean that were 2 acres or more in size (1 Ha.) Toothwort along Ham Lane
57 were protected as SINCs but this did not extend to many smaller fragment such as Coldhill Copse, Bulls Copse and Dell Piece West where a few patches of these AWVPs still survive even where new developments have encroached. Some of the species such as bluebells and violets will extend into other habitats such as hedgerow verges.
Ancient Woodland Indicator Species in Horndean
Common Name Latin Name Frequency, Locations Barren Strawberry Potentilla sterilis Wood banks, common Bluebell Hyacynthoides non- Occurs throughout Parish scripta Broad-leaved Epipactis helleborine Sheepwash Track, Dell Piece West Helleborine Butcher’s Broom Ruscus aculeatus Yoells Copse, Catherington Lith, Pyle Farm Lane Cow-wheat Mealampyrum Yoells Copse pratense Golden-rod Solidago virgaurea Yoells Copse Moschatel Adoxa Moschatellina Yoells Copse, Blendworth Lith, woods west of Catherington Down Nettle-leaved Campanula Catherington Lith, Wick Hanger, Bellflower trachelium Pignut Conopodium majus Yoells Copse, Catherington, Ham Lane and Blendworth Lith Primrose Primula vulgaris In many hedgerows and woodland, some imported Ransoms, Allium ursinum Common in most Ancient Woodland, especially. Yoells Copse and James Copse Sanicle Sanicula europaea Across Parish in woods on richer soil. Solomon’s Seal Polygonatum In most AW, present in Yoells Copse, Catherington Lith multiflorum and Wick Hanger Spurge-laurel Daphne laureola Rare but occurs in Catherington Lith and Wick Hanger Sweet woodruff Galium odoratum Yoells Copse, Catherington Lith and common elsewhere Toothwort Lathraea squamaria Frequent in Ancient Hedgerows, Catherington Lith, Ham Lane Wood anemone Anemone nemorosa In all Horndean bluebell woods. Pink form at Dell Piece West and Catherington Lith Wood -sorrel Oxalis acetosella Small patches in Yoells Copse, Catherington Lith and most of Horndean’s Ancient Woodland Yellow archangel Lamiastrum Attractive flowers in May and June. Variegated form is Galeobdolon an invasive garden escape. Yellow pimpernel Lysimachia nemorum Frequent in Horndean’s Ancient Woodland including Yoells Copse and Ancient Lanes.
4.11 Orchids in Horndean There are 10 species of orchids present in Horndean and these are listed below.
Common Name Latin Name Frequency, Locations Common Spotted Dactylorhiza fuchsii Frequent across the area, at Catherington Down and the Orchid A3(M) roundabout and slip roads Pyramidal Orchid Anacamptis Occasioanal at Catherington Down. Frequent on Dell pyramidalis Piece roundabout and A3(M) banks
58 Common Name Latin Name Frequency, Locations Early Purple Orchid Orchis mascula Appears in ancient woodland at Wick Hanger and frequent in copses north of Clanfield Green-winged Orchis moria Rare, isolated specimen in garden near Hazleton Way Orchid Fragrant Orchid Gymnadenia Irregular occurrence at Catherington Down, CL, A3 and conopsea Dell Piece roundabout and slip roads Common Listera ovata Frequent at CL on north slopes, occasional at Twayblade Catherington Down and along ancient tracks Bee Orchid Ophrys apifera On slip road and banks at Dell Piece East and on grass verge near Hazelton Way Frog Orchid Coeloglossum viride Rare on Catherington Down slopes but difficult to spot Broad-leaved Epipactis helleborine Sheepwash track from Hazelton Common to Padnell Road Helleborine (late flowering in August and DPW Southern Marsh Dactylorhiza Only at DPW, one or two fine specimens. Orchid praetermissa
Some are frequent and are widely dispersed across the area. They vary in quantity, quality and location from year to year. On Catherington Down there has been a decline in recent years whereas at Dell Piece there have recently been new discoveries. Often a number appear on disturbed ground or on grass verges and road embankments as is the case with the A3(M) motorway. The only action that can be taken to conserve them is to observe and record their occurrence and to make management teams aware of their presence so that protective measures can be taken. This was the case along Hazelton Way where Bee orchids were growing on a section of the grass verge and cutting was avoided on this section.
4.12 Arable Plants in Horndean Arable plants, according to ‘Plantlife’, are the most critically threatened group of wild plants in the UK and have shown the greatest decline of any group of British plants over the past 25 Broad-leaved Helleborine years largely due to farming practices and climate change.27 They do not only grow in arable fields but can be found along footpaths and roadside verges, in waste-places, allotments, school grounds, playing fields and most important gardens – all habitats that are common in Horndean.
The presence of a wide range of arable plants encourages a diverse population of mammals, birds and invertebrates. This diversity has economic and environmental benefits such as an increase in natural predators of crop-destroying insects, an Common Spotted Orchids and Ox-eye daisies increase in game birds and an increased in
59 plant pollinators. For many the beauty of the countryside was enhanced by the flowers of the arable fields such as poppies, mayweed, red pimpernel, cornflowers and marigolds.
Actions needed to preserve and encourage the growth of wildflowers are listed below: A. Record and survey changes in the populations and distribution of arable and hedgerow plants in rural and urban sites. B. Select suitable grassland sites for the planting of wild flowers and recreating flower meadows. C. Collect seed as well as use commercial seed mixes to sow and propagate species appropriate to selected sites. D. Raise awareness of local projects and encourage local urban groups to manage areas for wildflowers E. Identify and record rare arable plants. Pyramidal Orchid
Wildflower species suggested for home propagation (mostly from seed) Cornflower (Centaurea) Pheasant’s-eye (Adonis) Viper’s Bugloss (Echium) Red Poppy (Papaver) Henbane (Hyoscyamous), Poisonous 3 species Chamomile (Anthemis) Corncockle (Agrostemma) Catmint (Nepeta) Musk-mallow (Althaea) Corn Marigold (Chrysanthemum segetum) Hemp-nettle (Galeopsis) Yellow Vetchling (Lathyrus) Many of these plants have rarer species in the same genus. Almost all are UK BAP Priority species but they have been selected as suitable for home growing and most are summer or autumn flowering. Many more will be found in the Identification Guide that can be downloaded from the Plantlife website.27
4.13 Alien and Invasive plant species Alien species are non-native, non-indigenous, foreign, or exotic species outside the range they occupy naturally or could not occupy without direct or indirect introduction or care by humans and includes any part of such a species that might survive and reproduce. They therefore differ from Native or indigenous species that grow within the range they occupy naturally or could occupy without direct or indirect introduction or care by humans.
Invasive species29 are alien species that becomes established in natural or semi-natural ecosystems or habitat, is an agent of change, and threatens native biodiversity. Some native species such as bracken and brambles may also be invasive.
Alien plants are not a major problem in Horndean but once they get a hold it is a very expensive task to remove them. The government has spent many millions of pounds trying to remove them. Funds will no longer be available and so it is now essential that local people are extremely vigilant and report anything suspect so that it can be stopped before spreading out of control. This document can only describe a few that are found in Horndean but details of the latest news and those species currently causing problems can be found on the Plantlife website.
The first two alien plants listed below are aquatic species present locally - 60 (i) New Zealand pygmyweed Crassula helmsii has been found in several local ponds and is difficult to remove as it easily fragments and bits could be spread by ducks or herons from one pond to another. Originally introduced from Australia in 1911 and sold in aquatic shops, it has been estimated that £3 million was spent just trying to control it but it has still not been eradicated.
(ii) Parrot’s Feather spread across the pond at Merchistoun Park. Dies back in hard winters but regrowth is probably from stem fragments. Both these aquatics spread at the expense of native aquatics and can form dense mats.
(iii) Japanese knotweed is one of the most pernicious non-native weeds in Britain and very difficult (and expensive) to eradicate. There is an area to the north of Dell Piece West adjacent to F.P. 26 where Japanese knotweed has been growing for many years and is now difficult to remove and will involve several years of chemical treatment. It endorses the need for local people to be observant and report any suspect plants whether they are in their own garden or on adjacent land.
(iv) Rhododendron causes problems in the wild, particularly in ancient woodland where it can grow to over 10 metres in height and has thick leaves that shade out native plants and in turn leads to the loss of local animal life, including dormice, which are dependent on the native flora. There are two sites in Horndean, one at Catherington Lith and the other at the Deep Dell on Hazleton Common, where rhododendron has taken hold but has now been largely removed but these areas need careful monitoring over a number of years. Introduced in Victorian times to add attractive colour to the woods, the plant does not spread by underground root growth but by lateral horizontal growth of the branches, when the branches touch the ground they will root and continually extend the area of cover.
(v) Himalayan balsam was introduced in 1839. It escaped from gardens and rapidly colonised river banks where volunteers have spent many hours removing the plants. Fortunately there have been no sightings in Horndean. Fine specimens can be seen by the village hall car park in Warnford.
(vi) Invasive Native Plant Species. The three native plants that have become very invasive if unchecked are Brambles, Ivy and Bracken. Conservation groups across the country have spent many hours removing scrub from woodland and downland habitats, the main target of attention being brambles. Although quick spreading both brambles and ivy are of great benefit to a wide range of wildlife and so a balanced approach is necessary.
Brambles provide food as nectar, pollen, flowers, fruit and leaves. They also provide good habitat and shelter for mammals such as dormouse and birds such as song thrush and wren and we all benefit from the fruit in the autumn. On the downside, if unmanaged, the spread of brambles can have a serious negative effect on the development of ground flora, especially in ancient woodland areas that have been coppiced. A careful balance has to be maintained in areas such as Yoell's Copse and Catherington Lith.
Ivy has in recent years spread at an alarming rate. As with brambles ivy has a rapidly spreading underground root system. In addition it has the ability to climb to great heights on trees, sometimes smothering an entire native tree. This can overshadow (and outcompete) the tree's leaves and the Blackberries on Bramble
61 weight can bring down weak trees in storms. Ivy is very beneficial to insects, especially bees and wasps. The second generation of the Holly Blue butterfly feeds on ivy. The flowers provide nectar and pollen right up the end of the year when other sources of food are scarce. It is also beneficial to other insects and birds offering shelter and nesting sites. Again it is necessary to strike a balance.
Bracken can be a problem once it gets a hold because of its powerful underground root spread. There are a number of sites in Horndean where the spread of bracken is becoming difficult to control including some hedgerows. Areas at Dell Piece West, Catherington Lith, Hazleton Common and The Holt are spreading at the expense of other vegetation and can be very difficult to control, although there are some benefits to wildlife such as reptiles.
4.14 Trees and Shrubs Several of the trees are over 250 years old and pre date the buildings and roads constructed since 1850. Trees are our living heritage and it is most important that they are looked after. Increasing housing density has brought many of the older trees into close proximity resulting in threats to both housing and trees but it is these older trees that provide habitats, shelter and food for such a large range of species that are important to the local ecology.
The Horndean Tree Register held on www.horndeantrees.co.uk aims to record and illustrate all the important trees growing in Horndean. There are many reasons for a tree being important. They may have landscape, environmental, historical value or simply be a part of the street scene - all will certainly be of importance to wildlife. The Register is arranged by species broadly in order of abundance in Horndean starting with the oaks, yews, ash and beech.
The Horndean Oaks. The Common or Pedunculate Oak is the greatest and most notable tree species in Horndean. Many mature oaks survive in the southern half of the Parish within housing estates, gardens and along lanes and hedgerows or in small copses. Many fields have a number of fine solitary oaks, some are on the line of former boundaries and all play an important part in the linking of corridors for wildlife and providing homes for birds and a many invertebrates, in fact more than 400 species of plant-eating insects are associated with the oak plus many species of fungi, mosses, ferns and lichens.
The oak trees growing at Dell Piece West are particularly healthy and fertile and many have grown from acorns to mature trees since the motorway construction and are now producing their own acorns (in 20 years).
In Yoells Copse a high percentage of the oaks are Sessile Oaks and there are also some hybrids (Q.rosacaea) . There are some fine specimens of Holm Oak near the centre of the village. They are hardy, were introduced in the 16th century and although non-native are evergreen and do provide shelter and nesting sites for birds. There are several Turkey Oaks on Dell Piece West and Hazleton Common. These are not-native, grow quickly and easily hybridise with native oaks and on ancient woodland areas are removed before they dominate over native species.
Horndean Ash is the second most common tree growing across the Parish and often in close proximity to oaks especially as hedgerow trees. It is a graceful and most attractive tree which rapidly spreads to open ground and across gardens largely due to a high production of wind-blown seeds or ‘keys’. It is hoped that many of the local native ash trees will remain immune to the Ash dieback disease. Ash is not host to as many species as oak but they are attractive to many lichens which add colour and interest in winter.
62 Yew Trees in Horndean are spread across the Parish in all our churchyards, and one of the largest in Hampshire is in Ludmore Hanger. It is poisonous and not host to much wildlife but one species of fungi that lives on yew is the Sulphur Polypore that can be seen growing on a yew tree along the A3 hedgerow near Merchistoun Park. Other native species that have a healthy presence in Horndean are Field Maple. Frequently found in local hedgerows and green spaces, also some very large veterans – 2 in Catherington churchyard and one at the south end of Keydell nurseries.
Sycamore is considered naturalised as it was introduced as early as c.1250. It can be a valuable part of the landscape other than in ancient woodland where it can dominate and shade the woodland floor. Some ancient coppiced sycamore survives in the small round wood on the path between Catherington and the Lith and on the higher parts at the south end of Catherington Down.
Beech is one of our most attractive native trees. The best trees occur in Catherington the finest specimen being next to Catherington School but a less noticed group are found further north by the junction with White Dirt Lane and others to the rear of the Old Vicarage. A fine avenue of around 50 beeches occurs on a steep bank along a road by Netherley Down. They do not live as long as oaks and rarely for over 400 years old and they are prone to falling down as they have a very shallow root plate and are subject to fungal attack. Many local trees have large bracket fungi attached. Dead beeches if left standing provide excellent nesting sites for woodpeckers and large fallen trunks make excellent homes for beetles and wasps etc. Many tall beeches along The Monarch’s Way footpath to Rowlands Castle have a fine spread of buttress roots covered in many types of mosses such as Polytrichum. Also along Monarchs Way are Silver Birch and Aspen being the food plant of a number of insect species.
Small areas of coppiced Hazel can be found at Catherington Lith and Yoells Copse but on both the wooded east and west side of Catherington Down there are some very old coppiced stools. Larger areas of recently coppiced hazel can be found in Bluebell woods north of Horndean and most of our ancient hedgerows and shelter belts contain some hazel.
The genus Sorbus There are 3 species of native Sorbus which can all be found growing naturally in Yoells Copse:- Wild Service Tree, Whitebeam and Rowan or Mountain Ash. It is rare to find them all in one small area of woodland. They are all indicators of ancient woodland. It is even rarer to find natural hybrids between these species, here the Wild Service has crossed with the Whitebeam. Fine specimens of both species occur in close proximity and would both need to be flowering at the same time. These rare hybrids have only been found in the Wye Valley and one in Kent and are referred to as the Wye Whitebeam. It is also unusual to find Sessile oak and oak hybrids in the same copse, making the copse a very special site for its biodiversity.
Flowering Trees and Shrubs. There has been a decline in species producing blossom with nectar available for bees in recent years and attempts are now being made to include these species in planting schemes in Horndean’s green spaces and hedgerows and also encourage their addition in gardens. They are chosen to provide a range of flowering times throughout the year. Most species also provide berries and nuts for birds and small mammals. The larger trees include Wild Cherry, a few of which can still be found in Yoells Copse.
Wild Apple found in Yoells Copse and Dell Piece West and all the Sorbus sp. produce flowers high up in the canopy. Amongst the native flowering shrub species that are beneficial to pollinating insects are several members of the Rose family such as. Blackthorn and Myrobalan Plum or Cherry Plum P.cerasifera. Both are valuable hedgerow plants but Cherry Plum is especially valuable as it is the
63 earliest of flowering shrubs and valuable to bumble bees, providing nectar early in February when little else is available.
Hawthorn is the commonest and quickest growing hedgerow plant, used extensively for stock-proof enclosure hedges, is food plant for many insect species but has the disadvantage of spreading across chalk down-land in common with Blackthorn and has to be regularly cleared from Catherington Down and just a few mature bushes are left to offer shelter and food for animals and birds.
Wild Rose species including Field Rose and Dog Rose are frequent in most of our hedgerows with occasionally Sweet-briar and, of course Brambles or blackberries are found almost everywhere but it is important to note that brambles are divided into a large number of micro species that at some time in the distant past many gave up sexual reproduction and have persisted vegetatively as micro species. Of 300 of these micro species found in the UK over 150 have been detected in Hampshire all of which are Rose described in the Flora of Hampshire. This may not seem relevant to Horndean but studies by Dr David Allen suggest that several of these species occur in ancient hedgerows on our side of Havant Thicket and suggest that the number present may have potential as historical indicators. The greater the number of different kinds in a particular hedge or wood, the older it is likely to be. Four members of the Honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) are all frequently seen in our hedgerows, produce flowers and berries, attract moths and can be grown in gardens. They are Guelder Rose, Wayfaring tree, Elder and Honeysuckle.
64
SECTION 5 ACTIONS
5.1 Introduction This section sets out the objectives, the recommended actions to achieve them and the outcomes of those actions that we believe would improve Horndean’s biodiversity following the studies undertaken and described in the previous sections. Partners who might be able to assist in achieving the outcomes are shown in the table as are cross-references to other organisations that have made similar recommendations.
The cross-references in Column 6 identify similar recommendations in published documents relating to Horndean. Items marked, “EHDC DW” and “EHDC SA” relate respectively to the District Wide and South Area Action Tables in Section 3 of the 2009 Biodiversity Action Plan for East Hampshire7. Items marked, “PUSH” relate to the “October 2012 PUSH Green Infrastructure Implementation Framework”
5.2 Action Table
Ref. Objective Actions Outcomes Partners Cross Ref Urban Habitat – Section 3.4 1. To improve the Encourage: Improved Residents, EHDC management of land management using support for EHDC, HPC SA4.4 gardens and methods sympathetic towards wildlife Residents allotments so wildlife; populations. Allotment that they are natural means of pest control Increased holders. more avoiding the use of chemical populations of sympathetic to sprays; species that wild life. assist in the growing fruit trees, pollination or flowering herbs and control pests. vegetables; Increased crop rotation on allotments understanding and vegetable plots to include of biodiversity flowering plants such as peas and its and beans; conservation. growing hedges to protect gardens and allotments from high winds; growing a selection of plants that flower throughout the year; participation in Big Garden Bird Watch; compost heaps and piles of logs in gardens. 2. To reduce the Encourage residents to refrain Reduce loss of EHDC loss of green from surfacing front gardens for wildlife habitat space to hard parking. Reduce risk of standing. local flooding.
66 Ref. Objective Actions Outcomes Partners Cross Ref 3. To improve the Encourage land owners to: Bigger, better EHDC EHDC value of open make better use of amenity and less- HPC SA4.3 spaces for grassland for biodiversity; fragmented HCC wildlife and to improve and introduce new areas for establish wild hedgerows, wild flower borders wildlife. life corridors. and trees between sites. 4. Manage trees Maintain a register of ancient and Better and less Residents Appendix to: notable trees. fragmented Landowners [N] Support Map and encourage retention of areas for HBG EHDC SA wildlife; wildlife; the urban copses, obtaining site EHDC 2.4 protection whenever possible. An urban area Control HPC Encourage tree planting on that is more pollution; Housing attractive and Moderate appropriate urban sites. less susceptible associations temperatures Seek protection of important to the extremes ; trees and copses. of natural Improve awareness of local trees Provide events. shelter from and their environmental benefits. wind. 5. Maintain and Survey local churchyards for birds, Better and less- Owners of Sec 3.4.4 enhance mammals, reptiles, trees and fragmented sites churchyards to plants present. areas for HPC support local Encourage owners of churchyards wildlife. EHDC flora and fauna. to produce and implement a plan Sites that for wildlife. people would like to visit to appreciate the surroundings. 6. Create wildlife Promote habitat creation Wildlife EHDC EHDC SA habitats in schemes and management of populations HPC 4.3 urban areas of wildlife to owners of recreational supported. HBG Horndean. land and gardens; Aesthetic Campaign for road verges to be appeal to managed for floral diversity. communities increased. 7. Protect the Encourage residents and Retention of Residents native species of landowners to remove and important Landowners bluebell from destroy any Spanish or hybrid native species. HPC hybridisation bluebells in their gardens and EHDC with the Spanish woodland. Bluebell.
67 Ref. Objective Actions Outcomes Partners Cross Ref Countryside – Section 3.5 8. Improve the Survey and record changes in the An increase in HPC EHDC value of the populations and distribution of the numbers of Local SA3.2 countryside for arable and hedgerow plants in natural landowners EHDC SA wildlife. rural sites. predators of SDNPA 2.5 crop-destroying Identify suitable sites for the Forestry insects reducing planting of wild flowers and Commission recreating flower meadows. the need to use Identify and record rare arable sprays; plants. Bigger, better Raise awareness of local projects and less- and encourage local groups to fragmented manage areas for wildflowers. areas for wildlife; Work with SDNPA and Forestry Commission to encourage more An increase in local landowners to participate in the numbers of environmental stewardship natural schemes in particular at the pollinators. higher level and also schemes under the English Woodland Grant Scheme. Aquatic and wetland habitats - Section 3.5.4 9. Increase Encourage Refuges for Residents EHDC wetland the establishment of new freshwater HPC DW 2.7 biodiversity. ponds; plants and Schools animals, birds good management of existing Horndean and insects ponds; Community Range of local removal and reporting of alien Association biodiversity species; EHDC extended with pond surveys; wetland plants HCC Where possible monitor the Reduced flood Developers condition of ponds. risk. Investigate the possibilities of extending wetland areas around Lavants. Natural networks - Section 3.6 10. Enable wildlife Develop a plan for natural Bigger, better HPC; PUSH to migrate networks through and around the and less- EHDC; HCC. U13 between the urban area linking isolated green fragmented Residents countryside and sites with the open countryside. areas for Land urban habitat wildlife. owners. 11. Improve the Manage road verges for floral Bigger, better EHDC PUSH wildlife habitat diversity. Reduce mowing of road and less- HCC U13; and floral verges that don’t collect large fragmented Highways EHDC diversity amounts of rubbish and are not areas for Agency SA4.3 alongside roads. subject to bramble invasion. wildlife.
68 Ref. Objective Actions Outcomes Partners Cross Ref 12. Make better use Work with HCC to improve Bigger, better HCC PUSH of public rights maintenance of rights of way to and less- HPC U12 of way to increase their value as wild life fragmented HIWWT EHDC provide wild life corridors. areas for DW4.5 corridors into wildlife. the urban area. 13. Provide cover Encourage planting of hedgerows Bigger, better SDNPA EHDC SA for nesting birds Where possible enhance and less- Landowners 3.2 and maintain a hedgerow network with trees or fragmented Residents network for areas for bushes and field margins. HPC wildlife between Increase the species diversity of wildlife. sites, such as ground flora in Hedgerows woodland, Conduct surveys of hedgerow ponds and ground flora. grassland Designated sites – Section 3.8 14. Preserve the Continue low-intensity Continued HPC natural ancient management of woodland areas preservation of HCC woodland in Yoell’s Copse and Catherington semi-natural FC habitat Lith ancient Connect to local ecological woodland. network. Colonisation by Undertake hazel coppicing. Dormice 15. Encourage Continue scrub management; Wildlife HPC transition to Hazleton Common and Dell Piece reservoir HCC Lowland Heath West improved habitat. Continue enhancement of wetland areas 16. Improve Plan for short periods of closure Retention of HPC seasonal of selected areas of sites to the site HCC management of public to enable grazing; designations. nature reserves Improved to reduce biodiversity of damage to sites sites. by overuse or disruption to grazing
69 Ref. Objective Actions Outcomes Partners Cross Ref 17. Assist visitors to Display notices on site and on An improved HPC EHDC SA enjoy web sites to persuade walkers to experience for HCC 4.5 designated sites stay on footpaths. visitors. Residents without Establish preferred routes across Visitor pressure damaging designated sites by selective diverted away biodiversity cutting of bushes and laying from most natural barriers alongside the sensitive areas. paths. Improved Encourage responsible dog access to sites. ownership. Work with HCC to improve public rights of way to access sites. 18. Maximise the Encourage Species diversity SDNPA EHDC SA ecological value maintenance/implementation of maintained and EHDC 1.1 of grassland on appropriate grazing regimes on enhanced; HIWWT Catherington downland; Balance HCC Down Maintain balance between achieved HPC species rich grassland and scrub; between species rich NE grassland and scrub Improved habitat for wildflowers 19. Expand UK BAP Encourage owners of surrounding Restoration of SDNPA PUSH F2; priority habitat land to participate in landscape scale HCC EHDC SA surrounding environmental stewardship unimproved HPC 2.2 Catherington schemes; chalk grassland; EHDC Down. Support SDNPA project to re- Landscape Land owners create grassland habitat on a character landscape scale, northeast and enhanced; west of Catherington Down; Large wildlife Encourage owners of adjacent reservoir land used for horse grazing to created; improve grazing practices to Maximize reduce loss of wild life habitat. ecological functioning of chalk grassland habitat.
70 Ref. Objective Actions Outcomes Partners Cross Ref 20. Retain and Encourage An increased Landowners EHDC SA improve the owners to maintain the range of Residents 1.2 privately owned privately owned SINCs to species; SDNPA SINCs to improve their biodiversity Increase in EHDC EHDC SA enhance their numbers of owners of woodland sites to HBIC 4.5 status for undertake selective coppicing, existing rare wildlife and as perhaps working with the species core areas in the SDNPA An improved ecological residents to walk the rights of ecological network. way and minor roads alongside network within
these sites, enjoy the situations the Parish. offered and support the retention of these sites 21. Enhance species Encourage private landowners to Species diversity Landowners; EHDC SA rich priority manage land more maintained and SDNPA; 2.3 habitats, to sympathetically towards wildlife. enhanced. HPC improve their HBIC status for wildlife and Support the ecological network. Working together with residents - Section 3.2 22. Improve Encourage garden moth recording Increased HBG EHDC residents’ Encourage local groups to share understanding HBIC DW 3.1 knowledge of records with the wider recorder and awareness HPC local wildlife. of variety and community and HBIC HIWWLT Undertake wildflower surveys on distribution of all designated sites. local wildlife. Target survey effort onto undesignated chalk downland sites 23. Promote Install additional interpretation An improved HIWWT EHDC biodiversity and boards on nature reserves and at appreciation of SDNPA SA4.1 its conservation key ecological sites. Work with how the natural HBG to the public, HIWWT and the SDNPA to environment HPC land owners, providing opportunities for works and how land managers people to visit and learn about it is relevant to and decision the local ecology. us all. makers Increased volunteering in biodiversity projects
71 Ref. Objective Actions Outcomes Partners Cross Ref 24. Utilise local wild Encourage pond dipping by Young people HBG life attractions children in selected safe understand the HPC to win the locations; importance of Housing hearts and Promote wildlife walks on the local Associations minds of young biodiversity and nature reserves; HIWWLT residents. conservation; Support the Horndean SDNPA Technology College allotment Future
project; generations Encourage community youth wild have greater life garden projects. i.e. Jodrell awareness of Close wildlife and conservation issues. 25. Increase the Develop volunteer training and More effective HPC EHDC knowledge base fund expenses and subsidies. conservation EHDC DW4.4 of skills to be Improve links between groups to practices and HCC used in better use of increase access to individuals with HIWWLT conservation. specific skills. volunteers. HBG
72 HBIC Priority Habitats, November 2013
73 APPENDIX 1 HORNDEAN’S URBAN WOODLAND
Urban trees are often unprotected by law as a Tree Preservation Order is only applied if there is an identifiable risk. As more housing is built trees are put under risk by owners who fell trees prior to submitting a planning application or who get concerned where properties have been developed or extended too near to existing trees. Listed below are the more significant groups of trees within and close to Horndean’s urban area.
No. Group of trees Location & Grid Description Current Protection and Reference issues 1. James Copse & Located on the James Copse is a 100 year Has SINC status & very James Copse western edge of old oak plantation over prominent from much of North Lovedean on the hazel with rare starveling Horndean and Hartplain. Havant BC stools of Ash and Maple. boundary. It’s in private ownership. SU683123 2. Coldhill Copse The Curve Includes Ash, oak, Holly, In 2003 a Planning Lovedean Hawthorn & Hazel. inspector rejected site for SU685130 housing. TPO EH480 refers 3. Yoells Copse Forms a northern 5Ha of ancient woodland. Has SINC status. TPO boundary to the It is now owned by EH120 refers. Lacks wild estates in Horndean PC. Is very life corridor to north. Lovedean. prominent from much of SU690129 Horndean. 4. Wagtail Road SU695129 Small copse left in recent Partly covered by a TPO. Copse development. 5. Crouch, Between Tree lined ancient lanes. Equestrian activity could Coldhill, Catherington & Part of Crouch Lane is on prejudice some trees. Tagdell & Ham Lovedean. the development Lanes plus SU689134 boundary. Ham Lane is on Ham Lane the SDNP boundary. The Copse copse includes Hazel and bluebells. 6. Catherington Five Heads/ There are many specimen In conservation area. TPO House Catherington Lane trees in grounds of Kings EH63 refers. junction. Court School. SU694140 7. Lychgate At junction of Small copse to north of Not protected & Copse Catherington Lane Bridle Path with various immediately outside the and the Bridle species including Gean development area. Path. SU695135. (Wild Cherry) In private ownership. 8. Dell Haven North of Bridle Mainly oak. Privately TPO 668 refers. Path and school owned. Site recently field. SU697136 developed. 9. 74 -82 Five To north east of Small group of trees on TPO EH 859 Heads Road Five Heads Rd. edge of estate and are SU700137 prominent from local R of W’s.
74 No. Group of trees Location & Grid Description Current Protection and Reference issues 10. Five Heads Located around Mainly Copper beech Also TPO EH151 & TPO EH166 House Five Five Heads House. unprotected Lime & refer. Heads Road SU700135 Sycamore trees immediately across road. All are prominent in Horndean 11. 40 Five Heads Small group of Includes a large Horse TPO650 refers. Road trees alongside Chestnut. Five Heads Road. SU702134 12. Highcroft Row: Large copse Abandoned Copse with Is part of Wild life between A3(M) & evidence of quarrying in corridor alongside the A3 Bentley Close. Is private ownership. (M) promoted by PUSH as south west of Provides visual and noise Project U13. A3(M). SU704135 barrier between A3(M) & residential area. Includes a large prominent Ash Tree. Shown on 1851- 1855 OS map. 13. Between SU705137 Band of trees that No protection. A3(M) & improve outlook and help Enterprise Rd. to limit noise from A3(M). 14. Catherington Between Highcroft Large prominent group of Woodland SINC. See Lith Estate and North trees. Forms backdrop to PUSH Project U13. Horndean. North Horndean Estates. SU702140 Links to wild life corridor along A3(M) Owned by Horndean PC. 15. St Catherines West of Group of trees In conservation area and Catherington overlooking and to east of on edge of SDNP. TPO Village. SU693144 Catherington Down. EH267 refers. Includes many beeches. 16. Blendworth Large woodland to In private ownership. SINC. Lith the east of London Forms backdrop to much Road, forms of Horndean Village. backdrop to Horndean Village. SU 708136 17. Crookley Park Located to north Includes a wide selection (TPO EH8) There are land east of former of specimen & parkland owner proposals to build Brewery. trees located in business on site. SU708132 site. Provides much of the attractive woodland backdrop to Horndean Village Centre. 18. Cadlington Groups of trees to Specimen trees east of Within grounds of Grade House south and west of Blendworth Lane. 2 listed building and in house. SU711132 Conservation area. 19. Blendworth SU709128 Within development TPO EH9 refers. Lodge boundary.
75 No. Group of trees Location & Grid Description Current Protection and Reference issues 20. Bulls Copse Woodstock Av. Band of trees, mainly oak south of Bull's at end of gardens is Copse lane. remnant of ancient copse SU691125 21. Bulls Copse SU695125 Trees around old pond include mature Aspens. 22. Bulls Copse In the Bull's Copse Several trees including Some trees have TPO’s and Briarfield oaks. Gardens area. SU695127 23. Area to the S 692121. There is a cluster of TPOs west of Keydell in this area. There is a Close case to re-survey and reassess. 24. Portsmouth Between Trees to rear of houses in Area of special housing Road Portsmouth Road Portsmouth Road. character. & Rosemary Way SU697121 25. North west of Tree belt along This is an urban tree belt Trees on Napier Road are Portsmouth Portsmouth Road, in parkland that gives on EHDC land. TPO 129 Road. including Horndean its attractive covers the Merchistoun Causeway Copse approach from the south. Hall site owned by Napier Road and EHDC own the open space Horndean Community Merchistoun Hall in Napier Road. Association. TPO EH212 Park applies to Causeway SU700128 Copse, partly owned by Horndean PC. 26. Merchistoun Several small Mainly large oaks. The TPO EH604 covers one Estate groups of trees large ‘Merchistoun oak’ is group mainly in open in the centre of a in Murray Road spaces & back roundabout. Significant gardens. groups of trees in Nelson SU700130 Crescent & Cunningham Road are on sites owned by EHDC. Also there are back garden trees. Many of these trees including some near to Horndean TC are unprotected and on privately owned or housing association or HCC land.
76 No. Group of trees Location & Grid Description Current Protection and Reference issues 27. Redcroft Row. Is partly in a The band of trees along TPO EH463 applies to The band of nursery and the north of Redcroft Row most but not all of these trees along the includes trees comprising ash with two trees and is considered to to the north of along the A3(M) oaks, some field maple need extending. Part of SU708125. and hazel provides an area is being developed attractive backdrop to this for housing. Is part of part of the village. Wild life corridor alongside the A3 (M) promoted by PUSH as Project U13. 28. Soakfield Row Close to junction Is probably an ancient of Pyle Lane & wood relic. Provides an Manor Lodge Road attractive section to SU711123 Horndean’s approach from the east and is not protected. 29. Area north of South of junction Includes many mature Possible area for housing Dell Piece East of Havant Rd & oaks. and business slip road Manor Lodge development. Road. SU708125 30. De ll Piece East Alongside the Oak woodland with Is part of Wild life Copse A3(M) immediately abundant Birch of recent corridor alongside the A3 south of Hazleton secondary origin but (M) promoted by PUSH as Junction. lacking Hazel. Provides an Project U13. SU705124 attractive section to Horndean’s approach from the east and from the A3(M).
77 APPENDIX 2 REFERENCES
1. South Hampshire: Integrated Water 13. Planning Policy Statements, Communities Management Strategy for PUSH (2009) & Local Government Section 5 www.environment- www.communities.gov.uk/planningandbu agency.gov.uk/static/documents/Leisure/ ilding PUSH_IWMS_MAR_09.pdf 14. Joint Nature Conservation Committee 2. Conservation of Habitats and Species www.jncc.gov.uk Regulations 2010 15. SINC Designated Sites, Hampshire www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/490/co Biodiversity Information Centre ntents/made www3.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity/sincs 3. Countryside & Rights of Way Act 2000 16. Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/37/c www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/69 ontents 17. Countryside Survey - measuring change 4. UK Biodiversity Action Plan in our countryside jncc.defra.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=515 www.countrysidesurvey.org.uk 5 18. The Natural Choice: Securing the value of 5. Hampshire Biodiversity Action Plan nature - HM Government White Paper – www3.hants.gov.uk/hampshirebiodiversit June 2011 y/hants-bap.htm www.gov.uk/government/uploads/syste 6. Conserving Biodiversity – The UK m/uploads/attachment_data/file/228842 Approach /8082.pdf jncc.defra.gov.uk/PDF/UKBAP_ConBio- 19. Biodiversity 2020: A strategy for UKApproach-2007.pdf England’s wildlife and ecosystem services 7. Biodiversity Action Plan for East www.gov.uk/government/uploads/syste Hampshire 2009-2019 m/uploads/attachment_data/file/69446/ www.easthants.gov.uk/ehdc/HeritageWe pb13583-biodiversity-strategy-2020- b.nsf/webpages/Countryside 111111.pdf 8. Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership 20. UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework - www.hampshirebiodiversity.org.uk/partn JNCC and Defra (2012) ers.html jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-6189 9. South East Biodiversity Strategy 21. Higher Level Stewardship: Environmental www.green- Stewardship Handbook, 4th Edition – space.org.uk/downloads/regions/se/Prese January 2013 ntations/SEBS%20- http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk %20Sussex%20LBAP.pdf /publication/2827091 10. Review of Land Management Provision 22. Caring for God’s Acre Action Pack within Biodiversity Opportunity Areas in www.caringforgodsacre.org.uk Hampshire 23. Dig a Pond for Dragonflies - British www3.hants.gov.uk/review_of_land_man Dragonfly Society’s booklet agement_provision_within_boas_in_ham www.british-dragonflies.org.uk pshire__full_report_.pdf 24. Great Crested Newt Surveys 11. Natural England http://ecosupport.co.uk/services/great- www.naturalengland.org.uk crested-newt-surveys-hampshire-uk 12. Natural Environment & Rural 25. Taking the lead: Managing walkers with Communities Act 2006 dogs on your site www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/16/c www.hants.gov.uk/rh/dogs/dogs-full.pdf ontents
78 26. Wildlife Gardening for Everyone - 37. Federation of City Farms & Community Wildlife Trusts Book Gardens www.wildlifetrusts.org/who-we- www.farmgarden.org.uk/ are/publications/books 38. Freshwater Habitats Trust 27. Wild Plants Guide www.freshwaterhabitats.org.uk/ www.plantlife.org.uk/wild_plants 39. Hampshire Biodiversity Information 28. British Wild Flowers Centre www.british-wild-flowers.co.uk/ www3.hants.gov.uk/landscape-and- heritage/hbic.htm 29. Managing invasive non-native plants - Environment Agency Document 40. The Conservation Volunteers - looking http://www.lbp.org.uk/ after green places www.tcv.org.uk/ 30. Fungi Around Horndean http://wildlife.vigay.com/biodiversity/fun 41. Hampshire Conservation Volunteers gi/ www.hcv.org.uk 31. Hampshire Fungus Recording Group 42. National Biodiversity Network - www.hampshirefungi.org.uk Distribution maps and UK wildlife data www.nbn.org.uk 32. British Lichen Society www.thebls.org.uk/ 43. Yoell’s Copse Nature Reserve www.yoellscopse.co.uk 33. Woodland Trust Guide to British Trees www.british-trees.com/ 44. Bees, Wasps & Ants Recording Society www.bwars.com 34. The Tree Council - UK charity promoting the importance of trees in a changing 45. CPRE Countryside Voice, Spring 2014 environment www.cpre.org.uk www.treecouncil.org.uk/ 46. Biodiversity offsetting in England -green 35. When to Watch Wildlife - a month by paper Sept.2013 month guide to the wildlife highlights www.gov.uk/government/organisations/d around Britain epartment-for-environment-food-rural- www.whentowatchwildlife.org/ affairs 36. Wild About Britain - British wildlife, the environment and the great outdoors www.wildaboutbritain.co.uk
79 APPENDIX 3 COUNTY RECORDERS
Amphibians & Reptiles - Hampshire Amphibian & Reptile Group (HARG) c/o Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane, Curdridge, Hampshire, SO32 2DP. Email: [email protected]
Bats - Hampshire Bat Group: Matthew Clarke, 164 Windham Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 4RA. Email: [email protected]
Bees, Wasps and Ants – Bees, Wasps and Ants Recording Society (BWARS): Mike Edwards, Lea-side, Caron Lane, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9LB. Email: [email protected]
Beetles – VC11: Records should be sent to the relevant national scheme (see www.brc.ac.uk/recording_schemes.asp) or direct to HBIC. Advice or verification provided by Michael Salmon, Avon Lodge, Woodgreen, New Forest, Hampshire SP6 2AU. Email: [email protected]. VC12: Dr Jonty Denton, 25 Glebe Meadow, Overton, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG25 3ER. Email: [email protected]
Birds - Hampshire Ornithological Society (HOS): Keith Betton, 8 Dukes Close, Folly Hill, Farnham, Surrey GU9 0DR. Tel:01252 724068. Email: [email protected]
Bugs - VC11: Records should be sent to the relevant national scheme (see www.brc.ac.uk/recording_schemes.asp) or direct to HBIC. Advice or verification provided by Michael Salmon, Avon Lodge, Woodgreen, New Forest, Hampshire SP6 2AU. Email: [email protected].
VC12: Dr Jonty Denton, 25 Glebe Meadow, Overton, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG25 3ER. Email: [email protected]
Butterflies - Butterfly Conservation - Hampshire Branch : Linda Barker, 13 Ashdown Close, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO53 5QF Tel: 023 80270042. Email: [email protected]
Churchyard Conservation - Caring for God's Acre, 11 Drovers House, The Auction Yard, Craven Arms, Shropshire, SY7 9BZ Tel: 01588 673041 www.caringforgodsacre.or.uk
Dragonflies & Damselflies - British Dragonfly Society, Hampshire Branch : Peter Allen, Hackers, Martin, Fordingbridge, SP6 3LA. Tel: 01725 519269. Email: [email protected]
Fleas - Siphonaptera Recording Scheme : Robert George, 54 Richmond Park Avenue, Queens Park, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 9DR. Tel: 01202 515238
Flora - Botanical Society of the British Isles - VC 11: Martin Rand, 21 Pine Road, Chandlers Ford, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO53 1LH Email: [email protected] - VC 12: Tony Mundell, 38 Conifer Close, Church Crookham, Fleet, Hampshire, GU52 6LS. Email: [email protected]
Fungi - Hampshire Fungus Recording Group: see contact details in APPENDIX 4
Hoverflies - Phil Budd, 488 Bitterne Road East, Bitterne, Southampton, SO18 5EP. Tel: 023 8044 4172. Email : [email protected]. 80 Advice on identification also provided by Chris Palmer, Hampshire Museums Service. Email: [email protected]
Lichens - Neil Sanderson, 3 Green Close, Woodlands, Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 7HU Tel: 02380 293671. Email: [email protected]
Mammals - Hampshire Mammal Group: Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. See Contact details in Appendix 3
Molluscs - Conchological Society of Great Britain & Ireland: Records to Rev. Graham Long, 12 Burgate Fields, Fordingbridge, SP6 1LR. Tel: 01425 53718 Email: [email protected] Verification material to Dr June Chatfield, 44 Ashdell Road, Alton, GU34 2TA Tel 01420 82214
Mosses & Liverworts - British Bryological Society - VC11: Rod Stern, 15 Selham Close Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 5BZ Email: [email protected]
Moths – Butterfly Conservation : Tim Norriss, 40 Taskers Drive, Anna Valley, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 7SA Tel : 01264 354944 Mobile : 0771 3254901 Email: [email protected]
Spiders - VC12: Rod Allison, Walnut Barn, Gussage St Michael, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 5HX. Email: [email protected]
Stoneflies & Caddis flies - Graham Vick, Crossfields, Little London, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 5ET Tel 01256-850718. Email: [email protected]
Hampshire Specialist Recording Groups
Badgers - Eastern Hampshire: Mick & Gill Neeve, 14 Sandown Close, Alton, GU34 2TG. Tel: 01420 87366 Email: [email protected] [email protected]
Bats - Hampshire Bat Group : Stephanie West (Membership Secretary), Spring Cottage, Somborne Park Road, Little Somborne, Hampshire, SO20 6HW Email: [email protected]
Birds - Hampshire Ornithological Society (HOS) : Alison Wall (Membership Secretary), 11 Waterloo Avenue, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG23 8DL. Website: www.hos.org.uk
81 APPENDIX 4 CONTACTS AND LINKS www.easthants.gov.uk/ BBC wildlife www.bbc.co.uk/nature Environment Agency Local Area Office: British Wildlife Magazine Solent and South Downs Area Office, www.britishwildlife.com/ Guildbourne House, Chatsworth Road, The only independent magazine Worthing, Sussex, BN11 1LD covering all aspects of British wildlife Tel: 0370 8506506 and its conservation www.environment- Buglife The Invertebrate Conservation Trust agency.gov.uk/regions/southern Bug House Ham Lane, Orton Waterville, email: [email protected] Peterborough PE2 5UU Farm Conservation Advisor www.buglife.org.uk Tel: 01733 201 210 Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group Useful for ID. Dedicated to the conservation The Old Cartshed, Herriard Park, Basingstoke, of all invertebrates and campaigning to save Hampshire RG25 2PL bees Tel: 01256 381655 www.fwag.org.uk/ Butterfly Conservation (Hampshire Branch) email: [email protected] 13 Ashdown Close, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, Hampshire SO53 5QF Forestry Commission Tel: (023) 80 270042 South East England Forest District, Bucks Horn www.butterfly-conservation.org/ oak, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 4LS Hantsiow-butterflies.org.uk Tel: 01420 23666 email: [email protected] / www.forestry.gov.uk/ [email protected] email: [email protected]
Botanical Society of the British Isles Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (Hampshire Branch) Hampshire Amphibian and Reptile Group www.bsbi.org.uk/ Hampshire Flora Group email: [email protected] Hampshire Mammal Group Beechcroft, Vicarage Lane, Curdridge, Campaign to Protect Rural England Hampshire SO32 2DP Beaconsfield House, Andover Road, Tel: 01489 774400 Winchester, Hampshire SO22 6AT www.hiwwt.org.uk/ Tel: 01962 843655 email: [email protected] www.cpre.org.uk/ email: [email protected] Hampshire Bat Group Tel: 023 8061 7551 Department for Environment, Food and Rural Local Contact: Nik Knight Affairs www.hampshirebatgroup.org.uk PO Box 1058, Lancaster House, Hampshire email: [email protected] Court, Newcastle Business Park, Newcastle- [email protected] Upon-Tyne, NE99 4YQ. Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre Tel: 0845 603 7777 www.rpa.gov.uk/ c/o Environment Department, Hampshire email: County Council, 84-98 Southampton Road, [email protected] Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 5PA Tel: 02380 383446 East Hampshire District Council www.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity/hbic Penns Place, Petersfield, Hampshire GU31 4EX email: [email protected] Tel: 01730 266551
82 Hampshire County Council Arts and National Farmers Union – South East Museums Service Ground Floor, Rotherbrook, Petersfield, Chilcomb House, Chilcomb Lane, Winchester, Hampshire GU32 3QG Hampshire SO23 8RD Tel: 01730 711950 Tel: 01962 826700 www.nfuonline.com/ www3.hants.gov.uk/museum/biology.htm email: mailto:[email protected] Keepers of the animal and plant collections of Natural England Hampshire including all insect groups, plants and fungi. Useful for ID, viewed by 1 Southampton Road, Lyndhurst, Hampshire appointment. SO43 7BU Contact Christine Taylor, Keeper of Natural Tel: 02380 283944 Sciences www.naturalengland.org.uk/ email :[email protected] email: [email protected]
Hampshire Fungus Recording Group Naturenet Dr. Stuart Skeates, 55 Cherville Street, www.naturenet.net/trees/index.htm Romsey, Hampshire SO51 8FB Tree advise, countryside law, hedgerow Tel: 01794 522192 regulations www.hampshirefungi.org.uk/ Princes Trust EMAIL : [email protected] www.princes-trust.org.uk Hampshire Heathlands Project Practical support and training for young people Ecology Group Environment Department, Hampshire County Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Council, 84-98 Southampton Road, Eastleigh, South East England Office, 2nd Floor, 42 Hampshire, SO50 5PA Frederick Place, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 Tel: 02380 383463 4EA www.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity Tel: 01273 775333 email: [email protected] www.rspb.org.uk/
Hampshire Ornithological Society Science and Plants for Schools The Membership Secretary, 11 Waterloo www.saps.org.uk/component/content/article Avenue, Winklebury, Basingstoke RG23 8DL /310-identifying-trees-a-shrubs Tel: 01489 571486 Tree and shrub identification site www.hos.org.uk/ email: [email protected] South Downs Joint Committee Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, Hampshire SINC Project Hampshire, PO8 0QE Ecology Group, Environment Department, Tel: 02392 571381 Hampshire County Council, 84-98 www.southdowns.gov.uk/ Southampton Road, email: [email protected] Eastleigh, Hampshire SO50 5PA. Huge site covering all aspects of wildlife and Tel: 02380 383463 environment www.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity email: [email protected]
83 APPENDIX 5 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Agri-environment schemes - schemes offering corridors aim to provide a corridor for payments to farmers to promote farming migration of all species between suitable compatible with the protection of the habitat areas. environment and the maintenance of the countryside as part of the Rural Development Environmental Stewardship - an agri- Regulation. Schemes applicable in all environment scheme which enables farmers countries of the UK are Environmentally and land managers in England to enter Sensitive Areas, Countryside Access Scheme, management agreements to maintain or Organic Aid Scheme and Habitat Scheme. enhance certain landscapes and features: it consists of two tiers: Entry Level Stewardship Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland - land which and Higher Level Stewardship. retains a native tree and shrub cover that has not been planted, although it may have been Ecosystem - the interactions of animals, managed by coppicing or felling and allowed plants, fungi, and micro organisms with each to regenerate naturally; or plantation on other and the non-living world. ancient woodland sites (PAWS), where the original tree cover has been felled and Edge-effects – where much of the biodiversity replaced by planting, often with conifers, and in small or narrow sites is under the influence usually over the last century. of factors from outside the site. Larger blocks of habitat have an inner core which is Ancient woodlands are particularly important buffered from these influences. because they are exceptionally rich in wildlife, including many rare species and habitats; are England Woodland Grant Scheme - grants an integral part of England’s historic from the Forestry Commission to create new landscapes; and act as reservoirs from which woodlands and to encourage the good wildlife can spread into new woodlands. management and regeneration of existing woodlands. Biodiversity Opportunity Area - regional priority areas of opportunity for restoration Green Infrastructure – a term used to and creation of Biodiversity Action Plan describe the accessible ‘multi-functional’ habitats. green space that should accompany housing developments for residents’ quality of life. Biosites – sites surveyed by HBIC. These areas provide potential direct and indirect benefits for biodiversity. Buffer Zone - a strip that partially or fully encloses an area to protect the inner section Habitat - a place where animals, plants, fungi, from ecological disturbance by outside and micro organisms live. pressures. Improved land – land that has been improved Calcareous - The period in geological time for the purposes of agricultural production, characterised by the deposition of chalk usually through ploughing, sowing, drainage, and the application of fertilisers. Coppice - trees which are cut back to near ground level every few years and which grow Invasive alien species - species from other again from the stump or stool. The many countries not naturally found growing in straight stems which grow from each stool are Britain, with a tendency to dominate used for firewood, tools and other purposes. communities to the detriment of native species. Corridor - the principle of connections between wildlife habitats. Closely related to the theory of fragmentation, ecological
84 Lavant - a temporary stream which only flows site meets these criteria it has ‘Favourable after wet weather or when the water table Condition Status’. Natural England works level rises. with, and provides advice and guidance, to landowners to ensure that the majority of Local Nature Reserves (LNR) - a site of SSSIs are either assessed as ‘Favourable’ or importance for wildlife, geology, education or ‘Unfavourable Recovering’ (i.e. failing the public enjoyment that offer people special criteria, but showing signs of recovery). opportunities to study or learn about nature or simply to enjoy it. South East England Biodiversity Forum – forum attended by leading voluntary and Site of Importance for Nature Conservation statutory nature conservation organisations, (SINC) - A non-statutory designation of sites at with a remit to provide advice to regional the county/district level. Sites are generally government and co-ordinate biodiversity assessed by either local authorities or county activity across the region. wildlife trusts, and adopted in local plans. Special Area for Conservation (SAC) - a site Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) - an designated by the UK Government under EC area of land notified under the Wildlife and Directive 92/43 on the conservation of natural Countryside Act 1981 as being of special habitats and of wild fauna and flora. nature conservation interest. The SSSI designation applies in England, Wales and Tree Preservation Order (TPO) – an Order Scotland. Sites are notified by the appropriate which causes the prohibition of cutting down, country conservation agency which in England topping, lopping or the willful destruction of is Natural England who administers the SSSI trees except with the consent from the Local system, designating and monitoring these Authority to ensure the preservation of trees, areas of national importance for nature groups of trees and woodlands. Type “W” conservation. Natural England use standard refers to TPOs for woodlands. criteria to assess the condition of SSSIs; if a
85 APPENDIX 6 ENGLISH LATIN NAMES FOR BAP
Adder Vipera berus Common Lizard Zootoca vivipara Alder Alnus glutinosa Common Pipistrelle Pipistrellus Ash Fraxinus excelsior pipistrellus Aspen Populus tremula Common Red Darter Sympetrum Autumn Lady's tresses Spiranthes spiralis striolatum Azure Damselfly Coenagrion puella Common Shrew Sorex araneusi Badger Meles meles Common Spotted Orchid Dactylorhiza Banded Snail Cepaea nemoralis fuchsia Bank Vole Myodes glareolus Common Toad Bufo bufo Barn Owl Typo alba Coot Fulica Bee Orchid Ophrys apifera Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra
Beech Fagus sativa Cornflower Cetaurea cyanus Birch Betula Cow Parsley Anthriscus Birds Foot Trefoil Lotus corniculatus sylvestris Black Garden Ant Lasius niger Cowslip Primula veris Black Medic Medicago lupulina Craneflies Tipulidae Blackbird Turdus merula Crickets Orthoptera Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Dingy Skipper Erynnis tages Blue Tit Cynistes caeruleus Dog Rose Rosa canina Bluebells, Spanish Hyancinthoides Dog's Mercury Mercurialis hispanica perennis Bluebells Hyancinthoides Duke of Burgundy Hamearis lucina non-scripta Dung Beetles Scarabaeoidea Bogbean Menyanthes Dunnock Prunella trifoliate modularis Brambles/blackberries Rubus sp Dwarf Thistle Cirsium acaule Broad-bodied Chaser Libellula depressa Earthworms Oligochaeta Brown Hare Lepus europeaus Earwigs Demaptera Brown Long-eared Bat Plecotus auritus Elder Sambucus nigra Brown-tail moth Euproctis Elephant Hawkmoth Deilephila elpenor chrysorrhoea English Oak Quercus robur Bulbous Buttercup Ranunculus English Elm Ulmus procera bulbosus Essex Skipper Thymelicus lineola Burnet Companion Euclidea glyphica Field Maple Acer campestris Burrying Beetles Nicrophorus sp. Field Rose Rosa arvensis Butcher's Broom Ruscus aculeatus Field Vole Microtus agrestis Capsid Bugs Miridae Five-spot Burnet Zygaena trifolii Centipedes Chilopoda Flag Iris Iris pseudocorus Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Frog Orchid Coeloglossum Chalkhill Blue Lysandra coridon viride Cheese Snail Helicodonta Garden Snail Helix aspersa obvoluta Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus Cinnabar Moth Tyria jacobaeae Glow-worm Lampyris noctiluca Clouded Yellow Colias croceus Goldcrest Regulus regulus Clustered Bellflower Campanula Goldfinch Carduelis glomerata carduelis Coal Tit Periparus ater Gorse Ulex europeaus Comma butterfly Polygonia c-album Grass Snake Natrix natrix Common Great Crested Newt Triturus cristatus Buzzard Buteo buteo Great Tit Parus major Common Frog Rana temporaria Green-veined White Pieris napi
86 Greenfinch Carduelis chloris Long Tailed Tit Aegithalos Grey Squirrel Sciurus caroliensis caudatus Grizzled Skipper Pyrgus malvae Magpie Pica pica Guelder Rose Viburnum opulus Magpie Moth Abraxus Harebell Campanula grossulariata rotundifolia Mallard Anas Harvestmen Opiliones platyrhynchos (Arachnida) Marbled White Melanargia Hawthorn Crataegus galathea monogyna Marigold (Corn) Chrysanthemum Hazel Dormouse Muscardinus segetum avellanarius Marjoram Origanum ajorana Hazel Corylus avellana Maybug (Cockchafer) Melolontha Heather Caluna vulgaris melolontha Hedgehog Erinaceus Meadow Brown Maniola jurtina europaeus Milkwort Polygala sp Heron Ardea cinerea Millipedes Diplopoda Hoary Plaintain Plantago media Mole Talpa europea Hogweed Heracleum Moschatel Adoxa sphondylium moschatellina Holly Ilex aquifolium Mother Shipton Moth Callistege mi Holm Oak (Evergreen) Quercus ilex Mountain Bullin Ena Montana Honeysuckle Lonicera Muntjac Deer Muntiacus reevesi periclymenum Myrabalan Plum (Cherry) Prunus cerasifera House Sparrow Passer domesticus Natterer's Bat Myotis natteri Hoverflies Syrphidae New Zealand Pygmy Weed Crassla helmsii Hummingbird Hawkmoth Macroglossum Nightjar Caprimulgus stellatarum eurpeaus Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica Noctule Bat Nyctalus noctula Jelly Ear Fungus Auricularia Nuthatch Sitta europaea auricular-judae Orange Tip Anthocaris Kestrel Falco tinnunculus cardamines Knapweed Centaurea sp Painted Lady Vanessa cardui Lacewings Neuroptera Palmate Newt Lissotrton Ladies Bedstraw Galium verum helveticus Ladybirds Coccinellidae Parrots Feather Myriophyllum Lapidary Snail Helicigona aquaticum lapicidia Peacock butterfly Inachis io Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Pedunculate Oak Quercus robur Large Red Damselfly Pyrrhosoma Primrose Primula vulgaris nymphula Pyramidal Orchid Anacamptis Large Skipper Ochlodes sylvanus pyramidalis Large Tortoiseshell Nymphalis Quaking Grass Briza media polychloris Rabbit Oryctolagus Large White Pieris brassicae cuniculus Large Yellow Underwing Noctua pronuba Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta Lesser Stagbeetle Dorcus Red Bartsia Odontites vernus parallelipipedus Red Clover Trifolium ratense Lesser-spotted Red Fox Vulpes vulpes Woodpecker Dendrocopus Red Pimpernel Anagallis arvensis minor Restharrow Ononis repens Lily Beetle Lilioceris lilli Rhododendron Rhododendron Little Owl Athene noctua ponticum
87 Ribwort Plantago Starling Sturnis vulgaris lanceolata Stitchwort, Greater Stellaria holostea Ringlet Aphantos Stitchwort, Lesser Stellaria graminea hyperantus Sulphur Polypore Laetiporus Rock Rose Helianthemum sulphurous nummularium Sweet Chestnut Castanea sativa Roe Deer Capreolus Sweet Briar Rosa rubinogosa capreolus Sycamore Acer Rough Hawkbit Leontodon pseudoplatanus hispidus Tawny Owl Strix aluco Round-headed Rampion Phyteuma Toothwort Lathraea orbiculare clendestina Rowan or Mountain Ash Sorbus aucuparia Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Salad Burnet Sanguisorbas Tufted Vetch Vicia cracca minor Turkey Oak Quercus cerris Scorpionflies Panorpa Wasp Spider Argiope germanica bruennichi Self Heal Prunella vulgaris Wayfaring Tree Viburnum lantana Serotine Bat Eptesicus White Admiral Limenitis Camilla serotinus Whitebeam Sorbus aria Sessile Oak Quercus petraea Wild Apple (Crab) Malus sylvestris Silver Birch Betula pendula Wild Cherry (Gean) Prunus avium Silver Spotted Skipper Hesperia comma Wild Garlic Allium ursinum Silver Washed Fritillary Argynnis paphia Wild Service Tree Sorbus terminalis Silver Y moth Autogramma Wild Strawberry Frageria vesca comma Wild Thyme Thymus serpyllum Skylark Alauda arvensis Willow Salix sp Slow Worm Anguis fragilis Winter Heliotrope Petasites fragrans Small Heath Coenonympha Wood Anemone Anemone pamphilus nemerosa Small Scabious Scabiosa Wood Mouse Apodemus columbaria sylvaticus Small Skipper Thymelicus Wood Pigeon Columba sylvestrisSmall palumbus Tortoiseshell Algais urticae Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Small White Pieris rapae Woodlice Isopoda Smooth Common Newt Lissotriton Wych Elm Ulmus glabra vulgaris Wye Whitebeam Sorbusx Snipe Gallinago Yellow Hammer Emberiza Soldier beetles Cantharidae citronella Solomons Seal Polygonatum Yellow Legged Clearwing Synanthedon multiflorum vespiformis Song Thrush Turdus philomelis Yellow Meadow Ant Lasius flavus Southern Hawker Aeshna cyanea Yellow Necked Mouse Apodemus Spanish Bluebell Hyancinthoides flavicolis hispanica Yellow Rattle Rhinanthus minor Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Yellow Shell Moth Camptogramma Speckled Yellow moth Psedopanthera bilineata macularia Yew Taxus baccata Stag Beetle Lucanus servus
88 APPENDIX 7 ABBREVIATIONS AND WILDLIFE STATUS KEY
AWIS Ancient Woodland Indicator Wildlife Trust Species HPC Horndean Parish Council AWVP Ancient Woodland Vascular IUCN International Union for Plants Conservation of Nature BAP Biodiversity Action Plan LNR Local Nature Reserves BTO British Trust for Ornithology PUSH Partnership for Urban South BWARS Bees, Wasps and Ants Recording Hampshire Society RHS Royal Horticultural Society CHSR Conservation of Habitats and RSPB Royal Society for the Protection Species Regulations of Birds EHDC East Hampshire District Council SAC Special Area of Conservation FSC Field Studies Council SDNP South Downs National Park FWAG Farming & Wildlife Advisory SINC Sites of Importance for Nature Group Conservancy GR Grid Reference SSSI Site of Special Scientific HBAP Hampshire Biodiversity Action Importance Plan TPO Tree preservation order HBG Horndean Biodiversity Group UKBAP UK Biodiversity Action Plan HBIC Hampshire Biodiversity VDS Village Design Statement Information Centre WCA Wildlife Countryside Act HIWWT Hampshire and Isle of Wight WFD Water Framework Directive
Nationally Notable Species Na Species which is thought to occur in 30 or fewer 10km squares of the national grid Nb Species which is thought to occur in 31 to 100 10km squares of the national grid and N Species which is thought to occur in 16 to 100 10km squares of the national grid UK BAP Species subject of a UK Biodiversity Action Plan LBAP Species subject of a Local Biodiversity Action Plan
IUCN Red List CR Critically Endangered LC Least Concern E Endangered DD Data Deficient VU Vulnerable NE Not Evaluate NT Near Threatened
CS County Scarce NS Nationally Scarce NN Nationally Notable
89 APPENDIX 8 FURTHER READING
Further information about matters covered in this document can be found in the publications and websites listed below under the headings of the sections to which they relate.
1.2 Why Is Biodiversity Important Certain information in this section is drawn from the interview with the environmental economist Pavan Sukhdev titled ‘Why conserve biodiversity?’ on the Natural History Museum website.
3.4.3 Gardens There have been numerous books on creating gardens for wildlife. The following selection is recommended Wildlife Gardening for Everyone with your questions answered by the RHS and Wildlife Trusts experts. Ed. By M.Tait (2006). There are numerous contributions and the book is full of practical ideas on every aspect of gardening and habitat creation. Guide to Garden Wildlife by Richard Lewington (2008) published by British Wildlife Publishing provides identification of more than 500 species likely to found in all gardens. Wildlife of a Garden – A 30 year study by Jennifer Owen (2010 RHS) Gives details of over 2650 species recorded in her urban garden and with details of recording methods and techniques. The National Trust Book of Wild Flower Gardening by John Stevens (1994) Gives information on the cultivation of over 250 wild flower species, well-illustrated and a guide to successful cultivation of native species in a variety of habitats and conditions. The Wildlife Pond Handbook by Louise Bardsley (2005 Sussex Wildlife Trust) covers all aspects of pond management. Natural England produce a number of leaflet and a CD on various aspects of wildlife gardening such as Wildflower Meadows: How to create one in your own garden (2007). Most of their guides (Ponds, Composting, Mammals) can be printed from www.naturalengland.org.uk
3.4.4 Churchyards The Caring for God’s Acre Action pack is a loose leaf folder in which pages on specific aspects can be copied. There is a 4-page guide to the Management of Churchyard Grassland for Conservation and a 2-page handout on Churchyard Lichens and their Conservation. Butterfly Conservation has a pamphlet on Discovering Butterflies in Churchyards and a similar pamphlet has been produced by BLS on Churchyard Lichens. There are blank Survey Forms for General Churchyard Surveys and a BLS Churchyard Mapping form (for Lichens) Wildlife in the Churchyard by Francesca Greenoak www3.hants.gov.uk/biodiversity/roadverges >> Road Verges of Ecological Importance project for information on Road Verges www3.hants.gov.uk/roads/trees-hedges-verges/ Information on verge maintenance and grass cutting etc. www3.hants.gov.uk/hbic-rveis.pdf 2 pages (Pdf file) on Road Verges of Ecological Importance in Hampshire, Road verges for wildlife, The Hampshire Road Verge Management Project HCC/HIWWT free pamphlet. www.horndeantrees.co.uk/
90 hedgerow trees in Horndean >> click on Hedgerow Verges . Shows photo examples of 12 of the verges in Horndean and details of survey methods used in local surveys. www.devon.gov.uk Pdf (83 pages) “The Management of Roadside Verges in Devon” 8th Edn July 2010 A very useful and well-illustrated guide, contains many useful tips applicable to Horndean. (No print copies now)
4.5.1 Butterflies and Moths A good ID guide to Moths is the Field Guide to the Moths of GB and Ireland by Paul Waring and Martin Townsend with illustrations by Richard Lewington. A lighter version with spiral binding, easier to use in the field is the Concise Guide to Moths by the same authors. In a similar format a Field Guide to the Micro Moths of GB and Ireland was published in 2012. A photographic Guide to British Moths and Butterflies by Chris Manley that includes many micro moths was published in 2008 by A & C B 2 Web sites : www.hantsmoths.org.uk provides full details and photographs of all species that occur in Hampshire plus a newsletter. www.UKMoths.org.uk an online guide to all the UK moths and micro moths including description and details of life cycle. www.horndeanbiodiversity.co.uk/moths gives details and lists of species seen in Horndean with photographs and local news. Pocket Guide to the Butterflies of Great Britain and Ireland by Richard Lewington covers all resident and migrant butterflies including all stages of their life cycle. An annual report is prepared by John Nundy, co-ordinator of the local transects ( Email: [email protected]) and all records are passed on to Butterfly Conservation who produce a detailed and well-illustrated Annual Report for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that includes moths. A gallery of local butterflies seen in Horndean is found on www.horndeanbiodiversity.co.uk as well as the Annual Report
4.5.2 Dragonflies and Damselflies A guided walk led by Lawrence Holloway is organised most years around the Nature Reserve. He is the author of The Dragonflies and Damselflies of Pagham Harbour. Field Guide to the Dragonflies and Damselflies of GB and Ireland by Steve Brooks, illustrated by Richard Lewington. The Dragonflies of Hampshire by John Taverner et al. With Hampshire distribution maps and habitat information. Records for Hampshire are kept by the British Dragonfly Society, Hampshire Branch: Peter Allan Tel: 01725 E: [email protected]
Records for Horndean can be found on the website www.horndeanbiodiversity.co.uk/dragonflies
4.5.3 Flies Many ID books and pamphlets are available including British Hoverflies by Stubbs & Falk (2002) and Britain’s Hoverflies by Ball & Morris (2013). The Dipterists Forum is the Society for the study of flies run by Stuart Ball. Website www.dipteristsforum.org.uk
4.5.4 Beetles ‘Discovery Guide’ of British Beetles’ produced by the BBC Wildlife magazine and illustrated by Chris Shield. – “the most successful creatures on Earth may be secretive, but they’re easy to find, if you
91 know how. Take tips from entomologist Richard Jones, and discover for yourself the diversity of beetles.” Now difficult to obtain but copies can be obtained from HBG. A Coleopterists Handbook (4th Edn.) gives practical advice and an introduction to all the beetle groups found in Britain – AES 2006
4.5.6 Shield Bugs and Squashbugs Evans & Edmondson Photoguide to Shieldbugs and Squashbugs of the British Isles Pub. WGUK 2005 – wwwWildGuideUK.com Chinery, M. Collins Guide to Insects of Britain and West Europe and there is a pamphlet/poster on Bugs by Buglife. Hampshire Recorder: Dr Jonty Denton (for VC12) [email protected] . Useful website: www.amentsoc.org/insects/fact-files/orders/
4.5.7 Other Invertebrates For ID Land Snails in the British Isles by Robert Cameron AN AIDGAP/FSC Guide 2nd Edn 2008 Land Snails of the British Isles by A.A.Wardhaugh Shire Nat History 1989 A Guide to the Snails of Britain and Europe by Pfleger V and Chatfield J. Hamlyn 1988 The Conchological Society of G.B. and Ireland issue a Code of Conduct for Fieldwork pamphlet and there is a web site at www.conchsoc.org Guide to Garden Wildlife written and illustrated by Richard Lewington and published by British Wildlife Publishing (2008)
4.5.8 Spiders and Harvestmen (Arachnida) A Guide to Spiders by Dick Jones (Hamlyn 1983) Author lives locally and has helped with local surveys in Horndean House and Garden Spiders FSC Guide by Dr Rod Preston-Matham. www.uksafari.com/spiders.htm Full of information to identify British spiders www.wildlife.vigay.com/biodiversity/spiders gives more details on local spiders
4.5.4 Bees, Wasps and Ants Further information on Bumble bees can be found in A Field Guide to the Bumblebees of GB and Ireland by Edwards, M & Jenner, M. (2005). There is a laminated Guide to bees of Britain and a good pamphlet has been produced by Buglife on Ants, Bees and Wasps
4.6 Fungi and Lichens A Field Key to Common Churchyard Lichens – a laminated folder from FSC by Frank Dobson A Guide to Churchyard Lichens (springbound) both by Frank Dobson and published by the British Lichen Society who also publish pamphlets on churchyard lichens with notes on ‘How you can help’. ‘Lichens on man-made surfaces’ gives advice on growing lichens on new stone or concrete surfaces as well as methods of removing lichens from gravestones where really necessary. Copies of all these pamphlets and recording sheets are available free from HBG. In addition to references mentioned under churchyards FSC have published a set of laminated folders on the main lichens, each guide covering the lichens of a specific habitat. An illustrated summary of lichens found in Horndean can be found on the website www.horndeanbiodiversity.co.uk Merryweather, J.W. 2001 Meet the Glomales – the ecology of mycorrhiza British Wildlife Vol.13 No.2
92 Mushrooms and other Fungi of GB and Europe by R. Phillips Collins Complete Guide to British Mushrooms and Toadstools by Sterry and Hughes - both FHRG members (2009) Collins Gem – Mushrooms & Toadstools, A Photoguide is more portable. A guide to all aspects of fungi is Pat O’Reilly’s book ‘Fascinated by Fungi’ (2011)
4.9 Wildflowers Bluebells of Britain – An introduction to native bluebells and how you can help protect them ‘Plantlife’ pamphlet illustrates the differences between the native species and the hybrids. The Wildlife Trusts, the Woodland Trust, The British Museum and Kew all produce detailed pages on bluebells and these can all be downloaded from their websites.
4.14 Trees and Shrubs Collins Tree Guide by Owen Johnson & David More. Readers Digest Field Guide to the Trees and Shrubs of Britain Some Hampshire Bramble Hot Spots by David Allen - HBIC Newsletter Issue 6 (2006)
93 Acknowledgements The Horndean Biodiversity Group gives special thanks to the following organisations and individuals that have helped in the compilation of this Biodiversity Action Plan.
Main Contributors John Vigay, Deryn Hawkins, Mike Ashton, Peter Leversha, John Telford, Oliver Saunders, Dominic Bowyer, Kim O'Brien Editor Andy Forbes Hampshire Biodiversity Nicky Court and team Information Service Hampshire and Isle of Wight Dr David Rumble, Sarah Jackson, Debbie Whitfield Wildlife Trust Butterfly Conservation John Nundy, Linda Barker East Hampshire District Council Mathew Fisk (GIS Officer) Martin Healey (Countryside) Picture Credits: Most of the photographs were taken by the main contributors mentioned above; the mapping information was supplied by HBIC and EHDC Geographic Information Service and the paintings by Mavis Vigay. The photographs and maps used in this document are subject to copyright which is retained by the supplier.
Surveyors and Recorders: The HBG would like to acknowledge and thank the many specialist advisors who have carried out surveys in Horndean and helped volunteers identify species. In alphabetical order they are:-
David Ball (Molluscs Stephen d'est Hoare (EH John Ockenden (EH Ancient Dr June Chatfield (Molluscs Trees, Urban Planning) Woodland) and Mosses) Dr Nigel Johnson (Flora, John Pile (Local Historian, Mike Edwards (Bees) Orchids) Forest of Bere) Dr Naomi Ewald (Ponds) Nik Knight (Bats) Martin Rand (Flora) Stephen Harwood Tim Norriss (Moths and Stuart Skates (Fungi) (Catherington Down) 'Mapmate') Rod Stern (Bryophytes) Jon Stokes (Tree Council)
The following have carried out site surveys on Horndean sites in recent years: Joel Miller (HBIC), Ian Ralphs (HBIC), John Rowe (HBIC), Pete Durnell. These surveys have been a great help to local volunteers who are monitoring sites and to those preparing management plans.
Thank you for taking time to read this Horndean Biodiversity Action Plan. Please don't just close the cover and forget what you have read as Our Countryside Needs You! Horndean Biodiversity Group relies on volunteers to help with surveys, tree planting, moth trapping and other activities so if you can help with these please contact us by e-mailing [email protected] to offer your services. You can also encourage wildlife by creating a rotation of crops within the plots in which flowering plants such as peas, beans and herbs are included which will encourage habitat creation. Give special attention to the margins and plot boundaries with hedgerows and trees such as blossom and fruit trees. Our countryside and wildlife will reap the benefits…..and so will we
94 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust Protecting wildlife. Inspiring people.
The leading nature conservation charity in the two counties. For more than 50 years we have protected local wildlife and inspired people to love nature. No other organisation, local or national, does more to protect the wildlife and wild places of Hampshire, the Island and our local seas. We manage 48 nature reserves We are supported by 27,000 members Our work is made possible by 900 volunteers including the South Down Group
Peter Leversha - South Down HIWWT Chairman www.wildlife.vigay.com
The Group works closely with Horndean Parish Council to bring together local people interested in observing and recording local wildlife; to raise awareness of the value and diversity of our wildlife, and to promote and encourage community involvement in the maintenance of our wildlife habitats including gardens, parkland, allotments, trees and the urban environment.. Our objectives are: To identify and record the natural resources and history of our local area To survey and identify local habitats and species To encourage and support community involvement in habitat and species recording and monitoring To raise local awareness and involvement in biodiversity conservation To study historical documents and past surveys in order to study changes in the local landscape, habitats for wildlife and species To produce reports of surveys and activities of each section of the group and record species on a database
Email: [email protected] www.horndeanbiodiversity.co.uk